2008 Ford Explorer vs. 2012 Chevrolet Malibu
To start off, 2012 Chevrolet Malibu is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2008 Ford Explorer. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2008 Ford Explorer would be higher. At 4,013 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 Ford Explorer is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Ford Explorer (210 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 41 more horse power than 2012 Chevrolet Malibu. (169 HP @ 6400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Ford Explorer should accelerate faster than 2012 Chevrolet Malibu.
Because 2008 Ford Explorer 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 2008 Ford Explorer. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 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 Ford Explorer (344 Nm @ 3700 RPM) has 127 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Chevrolet Malibu. (217 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2008 Ford Explorer will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Chevrolet Malibu.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Ford Explorer | 2012 Chevrolet Malibu | |
| Make | Ford | Chevrolet |
| Model | Explorer | Malibu |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2012 |
| Body Type | SUV | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4013 cc | 2400 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 210 HP | 169 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5100 RPM | 6400 RPM |
| Torque | 344 Nm | 217 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3700 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | 6-speed shiftable automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 5350 mm | 4872 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1880 mm | 1786 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1850 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3320 mm | 2852 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Highway | 11.8 L/100km | 7.1 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption City | 16.8 L/100km | 10.7 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 85 L | 61 L |
