2004 Chevrolet Malibu vs. 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata
To start off, 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 5 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 2,198 cc (4 cylinders), 2004 Chevrolet Malibu is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata (167 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 21 more horse power than 2004 Chevrolet Malibu. (146 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata should accelerate faster than 2004 Chevrolet Malibu. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Chevrolet Malibu weights approximately 310 kg more than 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata.
Because 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata 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 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata. 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, 2004 Chevrolet Malibu (203 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 12 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (191 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 2004 Chevrolet Malibu will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata. 2004 Chevrolet Malibu has automatic transmission and 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata has manual transmission. 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata 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 | 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata | |
Make | Chevrolet | Mazda |
Model | Malibu | MX-5 Miata |
Year Released | 2004 | 2009 |
Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2198 cc | 1999 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 146 HP | 167 HP |
Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 7000 RPM |
Torque | 203 Nm | 191 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 86 mm | 92 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 94.6 mm | 83.6 mm |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1435 kg | 1125 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4790 mm | 4000 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1730 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1250 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2340 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 61 L | 48 L |