2008 Chevrolet Malibu vs. 2011 Ford C-Max
To start off, 2011 Ford C-Max is newer by 3 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 (164 HP @ 6400 RPM) has 69 more horse power than 2011 Ford C-Max. (95 HP @ 3600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Chevrolet Malibu should accelerate faster than 2011 Ford C-Max.
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, 2011 Ford C-Max (230 Nm @ 1500 RPM) has 14 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Chevrolet Malibu. (216 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 2011 Ford C-Max will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Chevrolet Malibu. 2008 Chevrolet Malibu has automatic transmission and 2011 Ford C-Max has manual transmission. 2011 Ford C-Max 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 | 2011 Ford C-Max | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Ford |
| Model | Malibu | C-Max |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Minivan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2401 cc | 1560 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 164 HP | 95 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6400 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Torque | 216 Nm | 230 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 1500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline / Electric Hybrid | Diesel |
| 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 | 4380 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1828 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1626 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2860 mm | 2648 mm |
