2009 Chevrolet Express vs. 2003 Chevrolet Malibu
To start off, 2009 Chevrolet Express 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 5,998 cc (8 cylinders), 2009 Chevrolet Express is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Chevrolet Express (319 HP @ 4600 RPM) has 119 more horse power than 2003 Chevrolet Malibu. (200 HP @ 5400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Chevrolet Express should accelerate faster than 2003 Chevrolet Malibu. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Chevrolet Malibu weights approximately 235 kg more than 2009 Chevrolet Express.
Because 2009 Chevrolet Express 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 Chevrolet Express. 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 Chevrolet Express (498 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 200 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Chevrolet Malibu. (298 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 2009 Chevrolet Express will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Chevrolet Malibu.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Chevrolet Express | 2003 Chevrolet Malibu | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Chevrolet |
| Model | Express | Malibu |
| Year Released | 2009 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Van | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5998 cc | 3500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 319 HP | 200 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4600 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 498 Nm | 298 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4400 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.1:1 | 9.8:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 12 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1260 kg | 1495 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5700 mm | 4790 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 2020 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 2080 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3440 mm | 2710 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 117 L | 62 L |
