2009 Chevrolet Malibu vs. 2001 Toyota MR2
To start off, 2009 Chevrolet Malibu is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2001 Toyota MR2. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2001 Toyota MR2 would be higher. At 2,399 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Chevrolet Malibu is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Chevrolet Malibu (162 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 22 more horse power than 2001 Toyota MR2. (140 HP @ 3400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Chevrolet Malibu should accelerate faster than 2001 Toyota MR2. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Chevrolet Malibu weights approximately 775 kg more than 2001 Toyota MR2. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2001 Toyota MR2 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 2001 Toyota MR2. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 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, 2001 Toyota MR2 (170 Nm) has 11 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Chevrolet Malibu. (159 Nm). This means 2001 Toyota MR2 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Chevrolet Malibu. 2009 Chevrolet Malibu has automatic transmission and 2001 Toyota MR2 has manual transmission. 2001 Toyota MR2 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2009 Chevrolet Malibu will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Chevrolet Malibu | 2001 Toyota MR2 | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Toyota |
| Model | Malibu | MR2 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 2001 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 2399 cc | 1799 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 162 HP | 140 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 3400 RPM |
| Torque | 159 Nm | 170 Nm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 2385 kg | 1610 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4880 mm | 3890 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1250 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2860 mm | 2470 mm |
