2005 Chevrolet Malibu vs. 2009 Mazda 3
To start off, 2009 Mazda 3 is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2005 Chevrolet Malibu. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2005 Chevrolet Malibu would be higher. At 3,490 cc (6 cylinders), 2005 Chevrolet Malibu is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Chevrolet Malibu (200 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 59 more horse power than 2009 Mazda 3. (141 HP @ 3500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Chevrolet Malibu should accelerate faster than 2009 Mazda 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Chevrolet Malibu weights approximately 23 kg more than 2009 Mazda 3. 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 Mazda 3 (360 Nm) has 62 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Chevrolet Malibu. (298 Nm). This means 2009 Mazda 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Chevrolet Malibu.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Chevrolet Malibu | 2009 Mazda 3 | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Mazda |
| Model | Malibu | 3 |
| Year Released | 2005 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3490 cc | 1998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 200 HP | 141 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Torque | 298 Nm | 360 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 94 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 84 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.8:1 | 16.7:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1508 kg | 1485 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4780 mm | 4420 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1480 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2860 mm | 2650 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 9.4 L/100km | 6 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 61 L | 55 L |
