2001 Chevrolet Malibu vs. 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata
To start off, 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 7 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 28 more horse power than 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (140 HP @ 7000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2001 Chevrolet Malibu should accelerate faster than 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Chevrolet Malibu weights approximately 240 kg more than 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata 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 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata. 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 89 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (168 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 2001 Chevrolet Malibu will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata. 2001 Chevrolet Malibu has automatic transmission and 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata has manual transmission. 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata 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 | 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata | |
Make | Chevrolet | Mazda |
Model | Malibu | MX-5 Miata |
Year Released | 2001 | 2008 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 3135 cc | 1840 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | in-line |
Horse Power | 168 HP | 140 HP |
Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 7000 RPM |
Torque | 257 Nm | 168 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 89 mm | 83 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 84 mm | 85 mm |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 1380 kg | 1140 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4840 mm | 3960 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1730 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1640 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2720 mm | 2270 mm |