2006 Chevrolet Malibu vs. 2011 Mazda MX-5 Miata
To start off, 2011 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 5 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 2,196 cc (4 cylinders), 2006 Chevrolet Malibu is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Mazda MX-5 Miata (167 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 22 more horse power than 2006 Chevrolet Malibu. (145 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Mazda MX-5 Miata should accelerate faster than 2006 Chevrolet Malibu. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Chevrolet Malibu weights approximately 611 kg more than 2011 Mazda MX-5 Miata.
Because 2011 Mazda MX-5 Miata 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 2011 Mazda MX-5 Miata. 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 20 more torque (in Nm) than 2011 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (190 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 2006 Chevrolet Malibu will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2011 Mazda MX-5 Miata. 2006 Chevrolet Malibu has automatic transmission and 2011 Mazda MX-5 Miata has manual transmission. 2011 Mazda MX-5 Miata 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 | 2011 Mazda MX-5 Miata | |
Make | Chevrolet | Mazda |
Model | Malibu | MX-5 Miata |
Year Released | 2006 | 2011 |
Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2196 cc | 2000 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 145 HP | 167 HP |
Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 7000 RPM |
Torque | 210 Nm | 190 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1750 kg | 1139 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4790 mm | 3995 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1720 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1245 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2329 mm |
Fuel Consumption | 7.4 L/100km | 8.4 L/100km |
Fuel Consumption City | 9.8 L/100km | 11.2 L/100km |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 61 L | 48 L |