2006 Chevrolet Malibu vs. 2004 Mazda 3
To start off, 2006 Chevrolet Malibu is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2004 Mazda 3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2004 Mazda 3 would be higher. At 3,900 cc (6 cylinders), 2006 Chevrolet Malibu is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Chevrolet Malibu (240 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 136 more horse power than 2004 Mazda 3. (104 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Chevrolet Malibu should accelerate faster than 2004 Mazda 3.
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, 2006 Chevrolet Malibu (327 Nm @ 2800 RPM) has 97 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Mazda 3. (230 Nm @ 1750 RPM). This means 2006 Chevrolet Malibu will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Mazda 3. 2006 Chevrolet Malibu has automatic transmission and 2004 Mazda 3 has manual transmission. 2004 Mazda 3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2006 Chevrolet Malibu will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Chevrolet Malibu | 2004 Mazda 3 | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Mazda |
| Model | Malibu | 3 |
| Year Released | 2006 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3900 cc | 1595 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 240 HP | 104 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 327 Nm | 230 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2800 RPM | 1750 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4780 mm | 4500 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1480 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2860 mm | 2650 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 11.2 L/100km | 5 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 61 L | 55 L |
