2006 Chevrolet Malibu vs. 2012 Subaru Outback
To start off, 2012 Subaru Outback is newer by 6 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 3,600 cc (6 cylinders), 2012 Subaru Outback is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Subaru Outback (256 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 55 more horse power than 2006 Chevrolet Malibu. (201 HP @ 5400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Subaru Outback should accelerate faster than 2006 Chevrolet Malibu. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Chevrolet Malibu weights approximately 142 kg more than 2012 Subaru Outback.
Because 2012 Subaru Outback is all wheel drive (AWD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2006 Chevrolet Malibu. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 Subaru Outback will offer significantly more control. 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, 2012 Subaru Outback (335 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 37 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Chevrolet Malibu. (298 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 2012 Subaru Outback will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Chevrolet Malibu.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Chevrolet Malibu | 2012 Subaru Outback | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Subaru |
| Model | Malibu | Outback |
| Year Released | 2006 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3491 cc | 3600 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | boxer |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 201 HP | 256 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5400 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 298 Nm | 335 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | AWD |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | 5-speed shiftable automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1750 kg | 1608 kg |
| Fuel Consumption | 8 L/100km | 9.4 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption City | 10.8 L/100km | 13.1 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 61 L | 70 L |
