2009 Chevrolet Malibu vs. 2003 Nissan X-Trail
To start off, 2009 Chevrolet Malibu is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Nissan X-Trail. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Nissan X-Trail would be higher. At 2,488 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 Nissan X-Trail is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Nissan X-Trail (177 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 7 more horse power than 2009 Chevrolet Malibu. (170 HP @ 6400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Nissan X-Trail should accelerate faster than 2009 Chevrolet Malibu. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Nissan X-Trail weights approximately 143 kg more than 2009 Chevrolet Malibu. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2003 Nissan X-Trail is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2009 Chevrolet Malibu. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 Nissan X-Trail will offer significantly more control. 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, 2003 Nissan X-Trail (245 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 28 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Chevrolet Malibu. (217 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2003 Nissan X-Trail will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Chevrolet Malibu.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Chevrolet Malibu | 2003 Nissan X-Trail | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Nissan |
| Model | Malibu | X-Trail |
| Year Released | 2009 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Sedan | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2399 cc | 2488 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 170 HP | 177 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6400 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 217 Nm | 245 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1261 kg | 1404 kg |
| Wheelbase Size | 2860 mm | 2660 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 61 L | 60 L |
