2001 Mazda 626 vs. 2012 Chevrolet Malibu
To start off, 2012 Chevrolet Malibu is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2001 Mazda 626. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2001 Mazda 626 would be higher. At 2,400 cc (4 cylinders), 2012 Chevrolet Malibu is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Chevrolet Malibu (169 HP @ 6400 RPM) has 61 more horse power than 2001 Mazda 626. (108 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Chevrolet Malibu should accelerate faster than 2001 Mazda 626.
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, 2001 Mazda 626 (230 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 13 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Chevrolet Malibu. (217 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2001 Mazda 626 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Chevrolet Malibu. 2012 Chevrolet Malibu has automatic transmission and 2001 Mazda 626 has manual transmission. 2001 Mazda 626 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2012 Chevrolet Malibu will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2001 Mazda 626 | 2012 Chevrolet Malibu | |
| Make | Mazda | Chevrolet |
| Model | 626 | Malibu |
| Year Released | 2001 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1998 cc | 2400 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 108 HP | 169 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 6400 RPM |
| Torque | 230 Nm | 217 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed shiftable automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4710 mm | 4872 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1786 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1520 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2680 mm | 2852 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 64 L | 61 L |
