2009 Chevrolet Malibu vs. 2008 Opel Astra
To start off, 2009 Chevrolet Malibu is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2008 Opel Astra. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2008 Opel Astra would be higher. At 2,399 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Chevrolet Malibu is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Opel Astra (178 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 16 more horse power than 2009 Chevrolet Malibu. (162 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Opel Astra should accelerate faster than 2009 Chevrolet Malibu. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Chevrolet Malibu weights approximately 1000 kg more than 2008 Opel Astra.
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 Opel Astra (230 Nm @ 1950 RPM) has 71 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Chevrolet Malibu. (159 Nm @ 4400 RPM). This means 2008 Opel Astra 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 Opel Astra has manual transmission. 2008 Opel Astra 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 Opel Astra | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Opel |
| Model | Malibu | Astra |
| Year Released | 2009 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2399 cc | 1598 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 162 HP | 178 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 159 Nm | 230 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4400 RPM | 1950 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.6:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline / Electric Hybrid | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 2385 kg | 1385 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4880 mm | 4300 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2860 mm | 2620 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Highway | 6.9 L/100km | 5.6 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 8.1 L/100km | 7.9 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 61 L | 52 L |
