2008 Chevrolet Malibu vs. 2003 Ford Focus
To start off, 2008 Chevrolet Malibu is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Ford Focus. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Ford Focus would be higher. At 2,401 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Chevrolet Malibu is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Chevrolet Malibu (164 HP @ 6400 RPM) has 56 more horse power than 2003 Ford Focus. (108 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Chevrolet Malibu should accelerate faster than 2003 Ford Focus.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. With that said, do keep in mind that many other factors such as speed and the wear on your tires can also have significant impact on traction and control. Let's talk about torque, 2008 Chevrolet Malibu (216 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 47 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Ford Focus. (169 Nm @ 3750 RPM). This means 2008 Chevrolet Malibu will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Ford Focus. 2008 Chevrolet Malibu has automatic transmission and 2003 Ford Focus has manual transmission. 2003 Ford Focus will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 Chevrolet Malibu will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Chevrolet Malibu | 2003 Ford Focus | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Ford |
| Model | Malibu | Focus |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2401 cc | 1989 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 164 HP | 108 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6400 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 216 Nm | 169 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 3750 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline / Electric Hybrid | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4880 mm | 4450 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2860 mm | 2650 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 61 L | 59 L |
