2004 Chevrolet Malibu vs. 2008 Ford Explorer
To start off, 2008 Ford Explorer is newer by 4 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 4,013 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 Ford Explorer is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Ford Explorer (210 HP) has 10 more horse power than 2004 Chevrolet Malibu. (200 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Ford Explorer should accelerate faster than 2004 Chevrolet Malibu. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Ford Explorer weights approximately 573 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 2008 Ford Explorer 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 Ford Explorer. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 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, 2008 Ford Explorer (344 Nm) has 46 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Chevrolet Malibu. (298 Nm). This means 2008 Ford Explorer will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Chevrolet Malibu.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Chevrolet Malibu | 2008 Ford Explorer | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Ford |
| Model | Malibu | Explorer |
| Year Released | 2004 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Sedan | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3491 cc | 4013 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 200 HP | 210 HP |
| Torque | 298 Nm | 344 Nm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.8:1 | 9.7:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1504 kg | 2077 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4780 mm | 5350 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1880 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1480 mm | 1850 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2950 mm | 3320 mm |
| Fuel Consumption | 8 L/100km | 11.8 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption City | 10.8 L/100km | 16.8 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 10 L/100km | 14.7 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 61 L | 85 L |
