2005 Chevrolet Malibu vs. 2004 Mazda RX-8
To start off, 2005 Chevrolet Malibu is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2004 Mazda RX-8. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2004 Mazda RX-8 would be higher. At 3,491 cc (6 cylinders), 2005 Chevrolet Malibu is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Chevrolet Malibu (200 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 11 more horse power than 2004 Mazda RX-8. (189 HP @ 7000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Chevrolet Malibu should accelerate faster than 2004 Mazda RX-8. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Chevrolet Malibu weights approximately 177 kg more than 2004 Mazda RX-8. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2004 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 2004 Mazda RX-8. 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, 2005 Chevrolet Malibu (298 Nm) has 78 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Mazda RX-8. (220 Nm). This means 2005 Chevrolet Malibu will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Mazda RX-8. 2005 Chevrolet Malibu has automatic transmission and 2004 Mazda RX-8 has manual transmission. 2004 Mazda RX-8 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2005 Chevrolet Malibu will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Chevrolet Malibu | 2004 Mazda RX-8 | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Mazda |
| Model | Malibu | RX-8 |
| Year Released | 2005 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3491 cc | 2616 cc |
| Engine Type | V | dual-disk rotary |
| Horse Power | 200 HP | 189 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 7000 RPM |
| Torque | 298 Nm | 220 Nm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1569 kg | 1392 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4780 mm | 4440 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1480 mm | 1350 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2860 mm | 2710 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 61 L | 61 L |
