2008 Chevrolet Malibu vs. 2011 Mazda RX-8
To start off, 2011 Mazda RX-8 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, 2011 Mazda RX-8 (232 HP @ 8500 RPM) has 68 more horse power than 2008 Chevrolet Malibu. (164 HP @ 6400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Mazda RX-8 should accelerate faster than 2008 Chevrolet Malibu.
Because 2011 Mazda RX-8 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 2011 Mazda RX-8. 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 (216 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 1 more torque (in Nm) than 2011 Mazda RX-8. (215 Nm @ 5500 RPM). This means 2008 Chevrolet Malibu will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2011 Mazda RX-8. 2008 Chevrolet Malibu has automatic transmission and 2011 Mazda RX-8 has manual transmission. 2011 Mazda RX-8 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 Mazda RX-8 | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Mazda |
| Model | Malibu | RX-8 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2401 cc | 1300 cc |
| Engine Type | in-line | dual-disk rotary |
| Horse Power | 164 HP | 232 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6400 RPM | 8500 RPM |
| Torque | 216 Nm | 215 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline / Electric Hybrid | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4880 mm | 4460 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1341 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2860 mm | 2703 mm |
| Fuel Consumption | 7.4 L/100km | 10.7 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption City | 9.8 L/100km | 14.7 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 61 L | 64 L |
