2008 Chevrolet Malibu vs. 2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser
To start off, 2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2008 Chevrolet Malibu. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2008 Chevrolet Malibu 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 (170 HP @ 6400 RPM) has 56 more horse power than 2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser. (114 HP @ 6300 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Chevrolet Malibu should accelerate faster than 2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser.
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 (217 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 60 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser. (157 Nm @ 4550 RPM). This means 2008 Chevrolet Malibu will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser. 2008 Chevrolet Malibu has automatic transmission and 2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser has manual transmission. 2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser 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 | 2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Chrysler |
| Model | Malibu | PT Cruiser |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2401 cc | 1596 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 170 HP | 114 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6400 RPM | 6300 RPM |
| Torque | 217 Nm | 157 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 4550 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 | 4880 mm | 4290 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1610 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2860 mm | 2620 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 9.4 L/100km | 7.7 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 61 L | 57 L |
