2009 Mazda RX-8 vs. 2013 Chevrolet Malibu
To start off, 2013 Chevrolet Malibu is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2009 Mazda RX-8. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2009 Mazda RX-8 would be higher. At 2,500 cc (4 cylinders), 2013 Chevrolet Malibu is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mazda RX-8 (232 HP @ 8500 RPM) has 45 more horse power than 2013 Chevrolet Malibu. (187 HP @ 6200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mazda RX-8 should accelerate faster than 2013 Chevrolet Malibu. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2013 Chevrolet Malibu weights approximately 425 kg more than 2009 Mazda RX-8.
Because 2009 Mazda RX-8 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 2009 Mazda RX-8. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2013 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, 2013 Chevrolet Malibu (244 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 28 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Mazda RX-8. (216 Nm @ 5500 RPM). This means 2013 Chevrolet Malibu will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Mazda RX-8. 2013 Chevrolet Malibu has automatic transmission and 2009 Mazda RX-8 has manual transmission. 2009 Mazda RX-8 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2013 Chevrolet Malibu will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Mazda RX-8 | 2013 Chevrolet Malibu | |
| Make | Mazda | Chevrolet |
| Model | RX-8 | Malibu |
| Year Released | 2009 | 2013 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1308 cc | 2500 cc |
| Engine Type | dual-disk rotary | in-line |
| Horse Power | 232 HP | 187 HP |
| Engine RPM | 8500 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Torque | 216 Nm | 244 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5500 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1125 kg | 1550 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4470 mm | 4859 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1854 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1462 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2738 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Highway | 10.7 L/100km | 5.9 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption City | 14.7 L/100km | 9.4 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 64 L | 70 L |
