2009 Chevrolet Malibu vs. 2008 Dodge Ram
To start off, 2009 Chevrolet Malibu is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2008 Dodge Ram. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2008 Dodge Ram would be higher. At 3,701 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 Dodge Ram is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Dodge Ram (215 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 53 more horse power than 2009 Chevrolet Malibu. (162 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Dodge Ram should accelerate faster than 2009 Chevrolet Malibu. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Chevrolet Malibu weights approximately 693 kg more than 2008 Dodge Ram.
Because 2008 Dodge Ram 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 Dodge Ram. 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, 2008 Dodge Ram (319 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 160 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Chevrolet Malibu. (159 Nm @ 4400 RPM). This means 2008 Dodge Ram will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Chevrolet Malibu.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Chevrolet Malibu | 2008 Dodge Ram | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Dodge |
| Model | Malibu | Ram |
| Year Released | 2009 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Pickup |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2399 cc | 3701 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 162 HP | 215 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 159 Nm | 319 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4400 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.6:1 | 9.6:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline / Electric Hybrid | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 3 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 2385 kg | 1692 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4880 mm | 5280 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 2030 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1880 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2860 mm | 3070 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 8.1 L/100km | 13.1 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 61 L | 98 L |
