2007 Chevrolet Malibu vs. 2008 Subaru Outback
To start off, 2008 Subaru Outback is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2007 Chevrolet Malibu. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2007 Chevrolet Malibu would be higher. At 2,457 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Subaru Outback is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Subaru Outback (243 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 99 more horse power than 2007 Chevrolet Malibu. (144 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Subaru Outback should accelerate faster than 2007 Chevrolet Malibu.
Because 2008 Subaru Outback is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2007 Chevrolet Malibu. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 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, 2008 Subaru Outback (327 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 121 more torque (in Nm) than 2007 Chevrolet Malibu. (206 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 2008 Subaru Outback will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2007 Chevrolet Malibu. 2007 Chevrolet Malibu has automatic transmission and 2008 Subaru Outback has manual transmission. 2008 Subaru Outback will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2007 Chevrolet Malibu will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2007 Chevrolet Malibu | 2008 Subaru Outback | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Subaru |
| Model | Malibu | Outback |
| Year Released | 2007 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2399 cc | 2457 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | boxer |
| Horse Power | 144 HP | 243 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 206 Nm | 327 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4200 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4780 mm | 4810 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1480 mm | 1610 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2860 mm | 2680 mm |
