2009 Cadillac STS vs. 2003 Chevrolet Malibu
To start off, 2009 Cadillac STS is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Chevrolet Malibu. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Chevrolet Malibu would be higher. At 3,599 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 Cadillac STS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Cadillac STS (302 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 102 more horse power than 2003 Chevrolet Malibu. (200 HP @ 5400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Cadillac STS should accelerate faster than 2003 Chevrolet Malibu. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Cadillac STS weights approximately 131 kg more than 2003 Chevrolet Malibu. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2009 Cadillac STS is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 2009 Cadillac STS. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 Chevrolet Malibu, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. 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, 2009 Cadillac STS (369 Nm @ 5200 RPM) has 70 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Chevrolet Malibu. (299 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 2009 Cadillac STS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Chevrolet Malibu.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Cadillac STS | 2003 Chevrolet Malibu | |
| Make | Cadillac | Chevrolet |
| Model | STS | Malibu |
| Year Released | 2009 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3599 cc | 3501 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 302 HP | 200 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 369 Nm | 299 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5200 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1635 kg | 1504 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5000 mm | 4790 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1850 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2960 mm | 2810 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 64 L | 62 L |
