2006 Chevrolet Malibu vs. 2008 Opel Astra
To start off, 2008 Opel Astra is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2006 Chevrolet Malibu. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2006 Chevrolet Malibu would be higher. At 3,491 cc (6 cylinders), 2006 Chevrolet Malibu is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Opel Astra (237 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 36 more horse power than 2006 Chevrolet Malibu. (201 HP @ 5400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Opel Astra should accelerate faster than 2006 Chevrolet Malibu. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Chevrolet Malibu weights approximately 357 kg more than 2008 Opel Astra.
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, 2008 Opel Astra (320 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 22 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Chevrolet Malibu. (298 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 2008 Opel Astra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Chevrolet Malibu. 2006 Chevrolet Malibu has automatic transmission and 2008 Opel Astra has manual transmission. 2008 Opel Astra 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 | 2008 Opel Astra | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Opel |
| Model | Malibu | Astra |
| Year Released | 2006 | 2008 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3491 cc | 1998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 201 HP | 237 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5400 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 298 Nm | 320 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 94 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 84.1 mm | 86 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1750 kg | 1393 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4780 mm | 4300 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1480 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2860 mm | 2620 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 9.6 L/100km | 9.4 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 61 L | 52 L |
