2001 Chevrolet Malibu vs. 2005 Ford Ranger

To start off, 2005 Ford Ranger is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2001 Chevrolet Malibu. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2001 Chevrolet Malibu would be higher. At 3,135 cc (6 cylinders), 2001 Chevrolet Malibu is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 Chevrolet Malibu (168 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 64 more horse power than 2005 Ford Ranger. (104 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2001 Chevrolet Malibu should accelerate faster than 2005 Ford Ranger. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Chevrolet Malibu weights approximately 57 kg more than 2005 Ford Ranger. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 2005 Ford Ranger 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 2005 Ford Ranger. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2001 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, 2001 Chevrolet Malibu (257 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 85 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Ford Ranger. (172 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2001 Chevrolet Malibu will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Ford Ranger. 2001 Chevrolet Malibu has automatic transmission and 2005 Ford Ranger has manual transmission. 2005 Ford Ranger will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2001 Chevrolet Malibu will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

2001 Chevrolet Malibu 2005 Ford Ranger
Make Chevrolet Ford
Model Malibu Ranger
Year Released 2001 2005
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 3135 cc 2184 cc
Engine Cylinders 6 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type V in-line
Horse Power 168 HP 104 HP
Engine RPM 5200 RPM 5000 RPM
Torque 257 Nm 172 Nm
Torque RPM 4000 RPM 3500 RPM
Drive Type Front Rear
Transmission Type Automatic Manual
Number of Seats 5 seats 2 seats
Vehicle Weight 1380 kg 1323 kg
Wheelbase Size 2720 mm 2990 mm