2008 Chevrolet Malibu vs. 2011 Nissan Xterra
To start off, 2011 Nissan Xterra 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 4,000 cc (6 cylinders), 2011 Nissan Xterra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Nissan Xterra (261 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 97 more horse power than 2008 Chevrolet Malibu. (164 HP @ 6400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Nissan Xterra should accelerate faster than 2008 Chevrolet Malibu.
Because 2011 Nissan Xterra 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 Nissan Xterra. 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, 2011 Nissan Xterra (381 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 165 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Chevrolet Malibu. (216 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 2011 Nissan Xterra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Chevrolet Malibu.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Chevrolet Malibu | 2011 Nissan Xterra | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Nissan |
| Model | Malibu | Xterra |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Sedan | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2401 cc | 4000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 164 HP | 261 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6400 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 216 Nm | 381 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline / Electric Hybrid | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4880 mm | 4539 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1849 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1902 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2860 mm | 2700 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 | 80 L |
