2004 Mazda 6 vs. 2012 Chevrolet Malibu
To start off, 2012 Chevrolet Malibu is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2004 Mazda 6. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2004 Mazda 6 would be higher. At 3,600 cc (6 cylinders), 2012 Chevrolet Malibu is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Chevrolet Malibu (252 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 88 more horse power than 2004 Mazda 6. (164 HP @ 6500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Chevrolet Malibu should accelerate faster than 2004 Mazda 6.
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, 2012 Chevrolet Malibu (340 Nm @ 3200 RPM) has 133 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Mazda 6. (207 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2012 Chevrolet Malibu will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Mazda 6. 2012 Chevrolet Malibu has automatic transmission and 2004 Mazda 6 has manual transmission. 2004 Mazda 6 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2012 Chevrolet Malibu will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Mazda 6 | 2012 Chevrolet Malibu | |
| Make | Mazda | Chevrolet |
| Model | 6 | Malibu |
| Year Released | 2004 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2184 cc | 3600 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 164 HP | 252 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 6300 RPM |
| Torque | 207 Nm | 340 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed shiftable automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4710 mm | 4872 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1786 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1490 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2630 mm | 2852 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 64 L | 61 L |
