2005 Chevrolet Malibu vs. 1989 Toyota MR2
To start off, 2005 Chevrolet Malibu is newer by 16 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1989 Toyota MR2. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1989 Toyota MR2 would be higher. At 3,491 cc (6 cylinders), 2005 Chevrolet Malibu is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1989 Toyota MR2 (221 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 20 more horse power than 2005 Chevrolet Malibu. (201 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1989 Toyota MR2 should accelerate faster than 2005 Chevrolet Malibu. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Chevrolet Malibu weights approximately 219 kg more than 1989 Toyota MR2.
Because 1989 Toyota MR2 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 1989 Toyota MR2. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 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, 1989 Toyota MR2 (305 Nm) has 7 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Chevrolet Malibu. (298 Nm). This means 1989 Toyota MR2 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Chevrolet Malibu.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Chevrolet Malibu | 1989 Toyota MR2 | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Toyota |
| Model | Malibu | MR2 |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1989 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 3491 cc | 1998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 201 HP | 221 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 298 Nm | 305 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 94 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 84 mm | 86 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1459 kg | 1240 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4790 mm | 4150 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1250 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2410 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 55 L |
