2006 Chevrolet Malibu vs. 2005 Mazda RX-8
To start off, 2006 Chevrolet Malibu is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2005 Mazda RX-8. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2005 Mazda RX-8 would be higher. At 3,491 cc (6 cylinders), 2006 Chevrolet Malibu is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Chevrolet Malibu (201 HP @ 5400 RPM) has 12 more horse power than 2005 Mazda RX-8. (189 HP @ 7000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Chevrolet Malibu should accelerate faster than 2005 Mazda RX-8. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Chevrolet Malibu weights approximately 360 kg more than 2005 Mazda RX-8. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2005 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 2005 Mazda RX-8. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2006 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, 2006 Chevrolet Malibu (298 Nm @ 3200 RPM) has 78 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Mazda RX-8. (220 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 2006 Chevrolet Malibu will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Mazda RX-8. 2006 Chevrolet Malibu has automatic transmission and 2005 Mazda RX-8 has manual transmission. 2005 Mazda RX-8 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 | 2005 Mazda RX-8 | |
Make | Chevrolet | Mazda |
Model | Malibu | RX-8 |
Year Released | 2006 | 2005 |
Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 3491 cc | 2614 cc |
Engine Type | V | dual-disk rotary |
Horse Power | 201 HP | 189 HP |
Engine RPM | 5400 RPM | 7000 RPM |
Torque | 298 Nm | 220 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 5000 RPM |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1750 kg | 1390 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4780 mm | 4430 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1780 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1480 mm | 1350 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2860 mm | 2710 mm |
Fuel Consumption | 8 L/100km | 9.8 L/100km |
Fuel Consumption City | 10.8 L/100km | 13.1 L/100km |
Fuel Consumption Overall | 9.6 L/100km | 11.8 L/100km |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 61 L | 61 L |