2008 Chevrolet Malibu vs. 2005 Nissan Frontier

To start off, 2008 Chevrolet Malibu is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2005 Nissan Frontier. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2005 Nissan Frontier would be higher. At 2,401 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Chevrolet Malibu is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Chevrolet Malibu (164 HP @ 6400 RPM) has 23 more horse power than 2005 Nissan Frontier. (141 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Chevrolet Malibu should accelerate faster than 2005 Nissan Frontier.

Because 2005 Nissan Frontier is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2008 Chevrolet Malibu. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 Nissan Frontier 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 Chevrolet Malibu (216 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 7 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Nissan Frontier. (209 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2008 Chevrolet Malibu will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Nissan Frontier. 2008 Chevrolet Malibu has automatic transmission and 2005 Nissan Frontier has manual transmission. 2005 Nissan Frontier 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 2005 Nissan Frontier
Make Chevrolet Nissan
Model Malibu Frontier
Year Released 2008 2005
Body Type Sedan Pickup
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 2401 cc 2393 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Horse Power 164 HP 141 HP
Engine RPM 6400 RPM 5200 RPM
Torque 216 Nm 209 Nm
Torque RPM 5000 RPM 4000 RPM
Fuel Type Gasoline / Electric Hybrid Gasoline
Drive Type Front 4WD
Transmission Type Automatic Manual
Number of Seats 5 seats 5 seats
Vehicle Length 4880 mm 4710 mm
Vehicle Width 1790 mm 1770 mm
Wheelbase Size 2860 mm 2660 mm