2008 Chevrolet Malibu vs. 2006 Ford Focus

To start off, 2008 Chevrolet Malibu is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2006 Ford Focus. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2006 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 130 more horse power than 2006 Ford Focus. (89 HP @ 3800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Chevrolet Malibu should accelerate faster than 2006 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 82 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Ford Focus. (215 Nm @ 1850 RPM). This means 2008 Chevrolet Malibu will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Ford Focus. 2008 Chevrolet Malibu has automatic transmission and 2006 Ford Focus has manual transmission. 2006 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 2006 Ford Focus
Make Chevrolet Ford
Model Malibu Focus
Year Released 2008 2006
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 3498 cc 1560 cc
Engine Cylinders 6 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type V in-line
Valves per Cylinder 2 valves 4 valves
Horse Power 219 HP 89 HP
Engine RPM 5900 RPM 3800 RPM
Torque 297 Nm 215 Nm
Torque RPM 3200 RPM 1850 RPM
Drive Type Front Front
Transmission Type Automatic Manual
Number of Seats 5 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 4 doors 5 doors
Vehicle Length 4790 mm 4460 mm
Vehicle Width 1780 mm 1710 mm
Vehicle Height 1470 mm 1540 mm
Wheelbase Size 2710 mm 2620 mm
Fuel Consumption Overall 9.4 L/100km 4.7 L/100km
Fuel Tank Capacity 61 L 55 L