2007 Lexus IS vs. 2012 Chevrolet Malibu
To start off, 2012 Chevrolet Malibu is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2007 Lexus IS. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2007 Lexus IS would be higher. At 2,996 cc (6 cylinders), 2007 Lexus IS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 Lexus IS (211 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 42 more horse power than 2012 Chevrolet Malibu. (169 HP @ 6400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2007 Lexus IS should accelerate faster than 2012 Chevrolet Malibu.
Because 2007 Lexus IS 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 2007 Lexus IS. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 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, 2007 Lexus IS (288 Nm @ 3800 RPM) has 71 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Chevrolet Malibu. (217 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2007 Lexus IS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Chevrolet Malibu.
Compare all specifications:
| 2007 Lexus IS | 2012 Chevrolet Malibu | |
| Make | Lexus | Chevrolet |
| Model | IS | Malibu |
| Year Released | 2007 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2996 cc | 2400 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 211 HP | 169 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 6400 RPM |
| Torque | 288 Nm | 217 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3800 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | 6-speed shiftable automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4510 mm | 4872 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1786 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2680 mm | 2852 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 61 L |
