2008 Chevrolet Malibu vs. 2002 Ford Fiesta
To start off, 2008 Chevrolet Malibu is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2002 Ford Fiesta. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2002 Ford Fiesta would be higher. At 3,498 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 Chevrolet Malibu is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Chevrolet Malibu (219 HP @ 5900 RPM) has 160 more horse power than 2002 Ford Fiesta. (59 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Chevrolet Malibu should accelerate faster than 2002 Ford Fiesta.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. 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 Chevrolet Malibu (297 Nm @ 3200 RPM) has 198 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Ford Fiesta. (99 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2008 Chevrolet Malibu will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 Ford Fiesta. 2008 Chevrolet Malibu has automatic transmission and 2002 Ford Fiesta has manual transmission. 2002 Ford Fiesta will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 Chevrolet Malibu will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Chevrolet Malibu | 2002 Ford Fiesta | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Ford |
| Model | Malibu | Fiesta |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2002 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3498 cc | 1299 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 219 HP | 59 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5900 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 297 Nm | 99 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4790 mm | 3920 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2490 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 61 L | 45 L |
