2004 Chevrolet Malibu vs. 2005 Nissan X-Trail
To start off, 2005 Nissan X-Trail is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2004 Chevrolet Malibu. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2004 Chevrolet Malibu would be higher. At 2,487 cc (4 cylinders), 2005 Nissan X-Trail is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Nissan X-Trail (177 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 31 more horse power than 2004 Chevrolet Malibu. (146 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Nissan X-Trail should accelerate faster than 2004 Chevrolet Malibu. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Nissan X-Trail weights approximately 15 kg more than 2004 Chevrolet Malibu. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2005 Nissan X-Trail is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2004 Chevrolet Malibu. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 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, 2005 Nissan X-Trail (245 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 42 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Chevrolet Malibu. (203 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2005 Nissan X-Trail will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Chevrolet Malibu. 2004 Chevrolet Malibu has automatic transmission and 2005 Nissan X-Trail has manual transmission. 2005 Nissan X-Trail will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2004 Chevrolet Malibu will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Chevrolet Malibu | 2005 Nissan X-Trail | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Nissan |
| Model | Malibu | X-Trail |
| Year Released | 2004 | 2005 |
| Body Type | Sedan | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2198 cc | 2487 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 146 HP | 177 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Torque | 203 Nm | 245 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1435 kg | 1450 kg |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2630 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 61 L | 60 L |
