1996 Chevrolet Malibu vs. 1971 Volkswagen 411
To start off, 1996 Chevrolet Malibu is newer by 25 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1971 Volkswagen 411. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1971 Volkswagen 411 would be higher. At 3,135 cc (6 cylinders), 1996 Chevrolet Malibu is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Chevrolet Malibu (156 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 77 more horse power than 1971 Volkswagen 411. (79 HP @ 4500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 Chevrolet Malibu should accelerate faster than 1971 Volkswagen 411. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Chevrolet Malibu weights approximately 326 kg more than 1971 Volkswagen 411. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1971 Volkswagen 411 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 1971 Volkswagen 411. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1996 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, 1996 Chevrolet Malibu (251 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 116 more torque (in Nm) than 1971 Volkswagen 411. (135 Nm @ 2700 RPM). This means 1996 Chevrolet Malibu will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1971 Volkswagen 411.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Chevrolet Malibu | 1971 Volkswagen 411 | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Volkswagen |
| Model | Malibu | 411 |
| Year Released | 1996 | 1971 |
| Engine Position | Front | Rear |
| Engine Size | 3135 cc | 1679 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 156 HP | 79 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Torque | 251 Nm | 135 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2700 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1406 kg | 1080 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4840 mm | 4530 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1640 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1490 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2750 mm | 2510 mm |
