2008 Chevrolet Malibu vs. 2006 Ford Ranger

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 Ranger. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2006 Ford Ranger 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 115 more horse power than 2006 Ford Ranger. (104 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Chevrolet Malibu should accelerate faster than 2006 Ford Ranger.

Because 2006 Ford Ranger 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 2006 Ford Ranger. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 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, 2008 Chevrolet Malibu (297 Nm @ 3200 RPM) has 123 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Ford Ranger. (174 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2008 Chevrolet Malibu will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Ford Ranger. 2008 Chevrolet Malibu has automatic transmission and 2006 Ford Ranger has manual transmission. 2006 Ford Ranger 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 Ranger
Make Chevrolet Ford
Model Malibu Ranger
Year Released 2008 2006
Body Type Sedan Pickup
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 3498 cc 2184 cc
Engine Cylinders 6 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type V in-line
Horse Power 219 HP 104 HP
Engine RPM 5900 RPM 5000 RPM
Torque 297 Nm 174 Nm
Torque RPM 3200 RPM 3500 RPM
Drive Type Front Rear
Transmission Type Automatic Manual
Number of Seats 5 seats 2 seats
Number of Doors 4 doors 2 doors
Vehicle Length 4790 mm 4670 mm
Vehicle Height 1470 mm 2120 mm
Wheelbase Size 2710 mm 2990 mm
Fuel Consumption Overall 9.4 L/100km 15.7 L/100km
Fuel Tank Capacity 61 L 80 L