2008 Chevrolet Malibu vs. 2012 Lexus IS
To start off, 2012 Lexus IS is newer by 4 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 3,500 cc (6 cylinders), 2012 Lexus IS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Lexus IS (306 HP @ 6400 RPM) has 142 more horse power than 2008 Chevrolet Malibu. (164 HP @ 6400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Lexus IS should accelerate faster than 2008 Chevrolet Malibu.
Because 2012 Lexus IS 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 2012 Lexus IS. 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, 2012 Lexus IS (375 Nm @ 4800 RPM) has 159 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Chevrolet Malibu. (216 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 2012 Lexus IS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Chevrolet Malibu.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Chevrolet Malibu | 2012 Lexus IS | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Lexus |
| Model | Malibu | IS |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2401 cc | 3500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 164 HP | 306 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6400 RPM | 6400 RPM |
| Torque | 216 Nm | 375 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline / Electric Hybrid | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | 6-speed shiftable automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4880 mm | 4585 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1801 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2860 mm | 2731 mm |
| Fuel Consumption | 7.4 L/100km | 8.7 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption City | 9.8 L/100km | 12.4 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 61 L | 65 L |
