1996 Audi A3 vs. 2013 Chevrolet Malibu
To start off, 2013 Chevrolet Malibu is newer by 17 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 2,500 cc (4 cylinders), 2013 Chevrolet Malibu is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2013 Chevrolet Malibu (187 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 36 more horse power than 1996 Audi A3. (151 HP @ 5700 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2013 Chevrolet Malibu should accelerate faster than 1996 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2013 Chevrolet Malibu weights approximately 410 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, 2013 Chevrolet Malibu (244 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 34 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Audi A3. (210 Nm @ 1750 RPM). This means 2013 Chevrolet Malibu will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Audi A3. 2013 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. 2013 Chevrolet Malibu will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Audi A3 | 2013 Chevrolet Malibu | |
| Make | Audi | Chevrolet |
| Model | A3 | Malibu |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2013 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1781 cc | 2500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 151 HP | 187 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5700 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Torque | 210 Nm | 244 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1750 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 81 mm | 88 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86.4 mm | 101 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1140 kg | 1550 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4160 mm | 4859 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1854 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1462 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2738 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 54 L | 70 L |
