2004 Chevrolet Malibu vs. 2009 Mitsubishi Eclipse
To start off, 2009 Mitsubishi Eclipse 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 3,827 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 Mitsubishi Eclipse is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mitsubishi Eclipse (265 HP @ 5750 RPM) has 119 more horse power than 2004 Chevrolet Malibu. (146 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mitsubishi Eclipse should accelerate faster than 2004 Chevrolet Malibu. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Mitsubishi Eclipse weights approximately 105 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.
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, 2009 Mitsubishi Eclipse (355 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 152 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Chevrolet Malibu. (203 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2009 Mitsubishi Eclipse will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Chevrolet Malibu. 2004 Chevrolet Malibu has automatic transmission and 2009 Mitsubishi Eclipse has manual transmission. 2009 Mitsubishi Eclipse 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 Mitsubishi Eclipse | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Mitsubishi |
| Model | Malibu | Eclipse |
| Year Released | 2004 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2198 cc | 3827 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 146 HP | 265 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5750 RPM |
| Torque | 203 Nm | 355 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1435 kg | 1540 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4790 mm | 4590 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1840 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2580 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 61 L | 67 L |
