2009 Chevrolet Malibu vs. 2013 Chevrolet Sonic
To start off, 2013 Chevrolet Sonic is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2009 Chevrolet Malibu. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2009 Chevrolet Malibu would be higher. At 2,397 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Chevrolet Malibu is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Chevrolet Malibu (169 HP @ 6400 RPM) has 35 more horse power than 2013 Chevrolet Sonic. (134 HP @ 6300 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Chevrolet Malibu should accelerate faster than 2013 Chevrolet Sonic. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2013 Chevrolet Sonic weights approximately 15 kg more than 2009 Chevrolet Malibu.
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, 2009 Chevrolet Malibu (217 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 48 more torque (in Nm) than 2013 Chevrolet Sonic. (169 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 2009 Chevrolet Malibu will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2013 Chevrolet Sonic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Chevrolet Malibu | 2013 Chevrolet Sonic | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Chevrolet |
| Model | Malibu | Sonic |
| Year Released | 2009 | 2013 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2397 cc | 1800 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 169 HP | 134 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6400 RPM | 6300 RPM |
| Torque | 217 Nm | 169 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | 6-speed automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1261 kg | 1276 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4880 mm | 4399 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1735 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1517 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2860 mm | 2685 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Highway | 7.8 L/100km | 5.5 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption City | 10.7 L/100km | 8.3 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 61 L | 46 L |
