2004 Chevrolet Malibu vs. 2008 Opel Meriva
To start off, 2008 Opel Meriva 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 3,491 cc (6 cylinders), 2004 Chevrolet Malibu is equipped with a bigger engine. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Chevrolet Malibu weights approximately 263 kg more than 2008 Opel Meriva.
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, 2004 Chevrolet Malibu (299 Nm @ 3200 RPM) has 149 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Opel Meriva. (150 Nm @ 3900 RPM). This means 2004 Chevrolet Malibu will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Opel Meriva. 2004 Chevrolet Malibu has automatic transmission and 2008 Opel Meriva has manual transmission. 2008 Opel Meriva 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 | 2008 Opel Meriva | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Opel |
| Model | Malibu | Meriva |
| Year Released | 2004 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3491 cc | 1598 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 197 HP | 0 HP |
| Torque | 299 Nm | 150 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 3900 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 94 mm | 79.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 84 mm | 81.5 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1638 kg | 1375 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4790 mm | 4050 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1630 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2860 mm | 2640 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 9.1 L/100km | 6.7 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 61 L | 53 L |
