2006 Chevrolet Malibu vs. 2006 Mazda 3
To start off, both 2006 Chevrolet Malibu and 2006 Mazda 3 were released in the same year (2006). Therefore the support and the availability on parts for both vehicles should be relatively similar. At 2,196 cc (4 cylinders), 2006 Chevrolet Malibu is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Chevrolet Malibu (145 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 40 more horse power than 2006 Mazda 3. (105 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Chevrolet Malibu should accelerate faster than 2006 Mazda 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Chevrolet Malibu weights approximately 630 kg more than 2006 Mazda 3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2006 Mazda 3 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 2006 Mazda 3. 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 (210 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 64 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Mazda 3. (146 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2006 Chevrolet Malibu will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Mazda 3. 2006 Chevrolet Malibu has automatic transmission and 2006 Mazda 3 has manual transmission. 2006 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 | 2006 Mazda 3 | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Mazda |
| Model | Malibu | 3 |
| Year Released | 2006 | 2006 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2196 cc | 1598 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 145 HP | 105 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 210 Nm | 146 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86 mm | 78 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 94 mm | 83.6 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1750 kg | 1120 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4790 mm | 4710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1490 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2650 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 8.7 L/100km | 8.5 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 61 L | 55 L |
