2009 Ford Focus vs. 2012 Chevrolet Malibu
To start off, 2012 Chevrolet Malibu is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2009 Ford Focus. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2009 Ford Focus would be higher. At 3,600 cc (6 cylinders), 2012 Chevrolet Malibu is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Chevrolet Malibu (252 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 118 more horse power than 2009 Ford Focus. (134 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Chevrolet Malibu should accelerate faster than 2009 Ford Focus.
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, 2012 Chevrolet Malibu (340 Nm @ 3200 RPM) has 20 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Ford Focus. (320 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 2012 Chevrolet Malibu will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Ford Focus. 2012 Chevrolet Malibu has automatic transmission and 2009 Ford Focus has manual transmission. 2009 Ford Focus will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2012 Chevrolet Malibu will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Ford Focus | 2012 Chevrolet Malibu | |
| Make | Ford | Chevrolet |
| Model | Focus | Malibu |
| Year Released | 2009 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1997 cc | 3600 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 134 HP | 252 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 6300 RPM |
| Torque | 320 Nm | 340 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed shiftable automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4350 mm | 4872 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1850 mm | 1786 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2852 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 53 L | 61 L |
