2001 Chevrolet Malibu vs. 2012 Mazda CX-7
To start off, 2012 Mazda CX-7 is newer by 11 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, 2012 Mazda CX-7 (244 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 76 more horse power than 2001 Chevrolet Malibu. (168 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Mazda CX-7 should accelerate faster than 2001 Chevrolet Malibu. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Mazda CX-7 weights approximately 338 kg more than 2001 Chevrolet Malibu. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. 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, 2012 Mazda CX-7 (349 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 92 more torque (in Nm) than 2001 Chevrolet Malibu. (257 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2012 Mazda CX-7 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2001 Chevrolet Malibu.
Compare all specifications:
| 2001 Chevrolet Malibu | 2012 Mazda CX-7 | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Mazda |
| Model | Malibu | CX-7 |
| Year Released | 2001 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3135 cc | 2300 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 168 HP | 244 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 257 Nm | 349 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1380 kg | 1718 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4840 mm | 4681 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1872 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1646 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2720 mm | 2751 mm |
