2004 Chevrolet Malibu vs. 2006 Chrysler PT Cruiser
To start off, 2006 Chrysler PT Cruiser is newer by 2 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 3,491 cc (6 cylinders), 2004 Chevrolet Malibu is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Chevrolet Malibu (200 HP) has 81 more horse power than 2006 Chrysler PT Cruiser. (119 HP). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Chevrolet Malibu should accelerate faster than 2006 Chrysler PT Cruiser. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Chrysler PT Cruiser weights approximately 369 kg more than 2004 Chevrolet Malibu.
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, 2006 Chrysler PT Cruiser (300 Nm) has 2 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Chevrolet Malibu. (298 Nm). This means 2006 Chrysler PT Cruiser will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Chevrolet Malibu. 2004 Chevrolet Malibu has automatic transmission and 2006 Chrysler PT Cruiser has manual transmission. 2006 Chrysler PT Cruiser 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 | 2006 Chrysler PT Cruiser | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Chrysler |
| Model | Malibu | PT Cruiser |
| Year Released | 2004 | 2006 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3491 cc | 2148 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 200 HP | 119 HP |
| Torque | 298 Nm | 300 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 94 mm | 88 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 84 mm | 88.3 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.8:1 | 18.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1504 kg | 1873 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4780 mm | 4290 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1480 mm | 1610 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2950 mm | 2700 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 10 L/100km | 7.6 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 61 L | 57 L |
