2008 Chevrolet Malibu vs. 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata
To start off, 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata 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 3,600 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 Chevrolet Malibu is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Chevrolet Malibu (252 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 128 more horse power than 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (124 HP @ 6500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Chevrolet Malibu should accelerate faster than 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata.
Because 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata 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 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata. 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 (340 Nm @ 3200 RPM) has 173 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (167 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2008 Chevrolet Malibu will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata. 2008 Chevrolet Malibu has automatic transmission and 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata has manual transmission. 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata 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 Mazda MX-5 Miata | |
Make | Chevrolet | Mazda |
Model | Malibu | MX-5 Miata |
Year Released | 2008 | 2009 |
Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 3600 cc | 1798 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 252 HP | 124 HP |
Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 6500 RPM |
Torque | 340 Nm | 167 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 4500 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 | 4880 mm | 4000 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1730 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1250 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2860 mm | 2340 mm |
Fuel Consumption Overall | 11.8 L/100km | 7.3 L/100km |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 61 L | 50 L |