2006 Chevrolet Malibu vs. 2006 Mazda RX-8
To start off, both 2006 Chevrolet Malibu and 2006 Mazda RX-8 were released in the same year (2006). Therefore the support and the availability on parts for both vehicles should be relatively similar. 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 12 more horse power than 2006 Mazda RX-8. (228 HP @ 8200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Chevrolet Malibu should accelerate faster than 2006 Mazda RX-8.
Because 2006 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 2006 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 (327 Nm @ 2800 RPM) has 116 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Mazda RX-8. (211 Nm @ 5500 RPM). This means 2006 Chevrolet Malibu will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Mazda RX-8. 2006 Chevrolet Malibu has automatic transmission and 2006 Mazda RX-8 has manual transmission. 2006 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 | 2006 Mazda RX-8 | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Mazda |
| Model | Malibu | RX-8 |
| Year Released | 2006 | 2006 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3900 cc | 1308 cc |
| Engine Type | V | dual-disk rotary |
| Horse Power | 240 HP | 228 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 8200 RPM |
| Torque | 327 Nm | 211 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2800 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4790 mm | 4440 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1350 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2710 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 11.2 L/100km | 11.2 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 61 L | 61 L |
