1996 Audi A3 vs. 2004 Chevrolet Malibu
To start off, 2004 Chevrolet Malibu is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Audi A3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Audi A3 would be higher. At 3,491 cc (6 cylinders), 2004 Chevrolet Malibu is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Chevrolet Malibu (197 HP @ 5400 RPM) has 74 more horse power than 1996 Audi A3. (123 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Chevrolet Malibu should accelerate faster than 1996 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Chevrolet Malibu weights approximately 498 kg more than 1996 Audi A3. 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, 2004 Chevrolet Malibu (299 Nm @ 3200 RPM) has 126 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Audi A3. (173 Nm @ 4100 RPM). This means 2004 Chevrolet Malibu will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Audi A3. 2004 Chevrolet Malibu has automatic transmission and 1996 Audi A3 has manual transmission. 1996 Audi A3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2004 Chevrolet Malibu will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Audi A3 | 2004 Chevrolet Malibu | |
| Make | Audi | Chevrolet |
| Model | A3 | Malibu |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1781 cc | 3491 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 5 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 123 HP | 197 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 173 Nm | 299 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4100 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 81 mm | 94 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86.4 mm | 84 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1140 kg | 1638 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4160 mm | 4790 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2660 mm | 2860 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 8.4 L/100km | 9.1 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 54 L | 61 L |
