2006 Chevrolet Malibu vs. 2010 Mazda RX-8
To start off, 2010 Mazda RX-8 is newer by 4 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, 2010 Mazda RX-8 (232 HP @ 8500 RPM) has 31 more horse power than 2006 Chevrolet Malibu. (201 HP @ 5400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2010 Mazda RX-8 should accelerate faster than 2006 Chevrolet Malibu. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Chevrolet Malibu weights approximately 360 kg more than 2010 Mazda RX-8.
Because 2010 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 2010 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 83 more torque (in Nm) than 2010 Mazda RX-8. (215 Nm @ 5500 RPM). This means 2006 Chevrolet Malibu will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2010 Mazda RX-8. 2006 Chevrolet Malibu has automatic transmission and 2010 Mazda RX-8 has manual transmission. 2010 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 | 2010 Mazda RX-8 | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Mazda |
| Model | Malibu | RX-8 |
| Year Released | 2006 | 2010 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3491 cc | 1300 cc |
| Engine Type | V | dual-disk rotary |
| Horse Power | 201 HP | 232 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5400 RPM | 8500 RPM |
| Torque | 298 Nm | 215 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3200 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 Weight | 1750 kg | 1390 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4780 mm | 4460 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1480 mm | 1341 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2860 mm | 2700 mm |
| Fuel Consumption | 8 L/100km | 10.7 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption City | 10.8 L/100km | 14.7 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 61 L | 64 L |
