2009 Chevrolet Malibu vs. 2008 Ford S-Max
To start off, 2009 Chevrolet Malibu is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2008 Ford S-Max. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2008 Ford S-Max would be higher. At 2,521 cc (5 cylinders), 2008 Ford S-Max is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Ford S-Max (217 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 47 more horse power than 2009 Chevrolet Malibu. (170 HP @ 6400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Ford S-Max should accelerate faster than 2009 Chevrolet Malibu. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Ford S-Max weights approximately 420 kg more than 2009 Chevrolet Malibu. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. 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 S-Max (320 Nm @ 1500 RPM) has 103 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Chevrolet Malibu. (217 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2008 Ford S-Max will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Chevrolet Malibu. 2009 Chevrolet Malibu has automatic transmission and 2008 Ford S-Max has manual transmission. 2008 Ford S-Max 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 | 2008 Ford S-Max | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Ford |
| Model | Malibu | S-Max |
| Year Released | 2009 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Minivan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2399 cc | 2521 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 170 HP | 217 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6400 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 217 Nm | 320 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 1500 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.7:1 | 17.8:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1261 kg | 1681 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4880 mm | 4770 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1890 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1660 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2860 mm | 2860 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 9.1 L/100km | 9.4 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 61 L | 70 L |
