2004 Chevrolet Malibu vs. 2009 Mazda RX-8
To start off, 2009 Mazda RX-8 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 3,491 cc (6 cylinders), 2004 Chevrolet Malibu is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mazda RX-8 (232 HP) has 32 more horse power than 2004 Chevrolet Malibu. (200 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mazda RX-8 should accelerate faster than 2004 Chevrolet Malibu. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Chevrolet Malibu weights approximately 379 kg more than 2009 Mazda RX-8.
Because 2009 Mazda RX-8 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 RX-8. 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 (298 Nm) has 82 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Mazda RX-8. (216 Nm). This means 2004 Chevrolet Malibu will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Mazda RX-8. 2004 Chevrolet Malibu has automatic transmission and 2009 Mazda RX-8 has manual transmission. 2009 Mazda RX-8 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 RX-8 | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Mazda |
| Model | Malibu | RX-8 |
| Year Released | 2004 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3491 cc | 1307 cc |
| Engine Type | V | dual-disk rotary |
| Horse Power | 200 HP | 232 HP |
| Torque | 298 Nm | 216 Nm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1504 kg | 1125 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4780 mm | 4470 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1480 mm | 1350 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2950 mm | 2710 mm |
| Fuel Consumption | 8 L/100km | 10.7 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption City | 10.8 L/100km | 14.7 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 10 L/100km | 13.1 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 61 L | 64 L |
