2008 Chevrolet Malibu vs. 2004 Ford Focus
To start off, 2008 Chevrolet Malibu is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2004 Ford Focus. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2004 Ford Focus 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 106 more horse power than 2004 Ford Focus. (113 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Chevrolet Malibu should accelerate faster than 2004 Ford Focus.
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 137 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Ford Focus. (160 Nm @ 4400 RPM). This means 2008 Chevrolet Malibu will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Ford Focus. 2008 Chevrolet Malibu has automatic transmission and 2004 Ford Focus has manual transmission. 2004 Ford Focus 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 | 2004 Ford Focus | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Ford |
| Model | Malibu | Focus |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2004 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3498 cc | 1753 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 219 HP | 113 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5900 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 297 Nm | 160 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4790 mm | 4300 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1490 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2540 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 9.4 L/100km | 7.6 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 61 L | 55 L |
