1996 Chevrolet Malibu vs. 1986 Volkswagen Polo
To start off, 1996 Chevrolet Malibu is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1986 Volkswagen Polo. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1986 Volkswagen Polo 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 (150 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 106 more horse power than 1986 Volkswagen Polo. (44 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 Chevrolet Malibu should accelerate faster than 1986 Volkswagen Polo. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Chevrolet Malibu weights approximately 695 kg more than 1986 Volkswagen Polo. 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, 1996 Chevrolet Malibu (249 Nm @ 3200 RPM) has 154 more torque (in Nm) than 1986 Volkswagen Polo. (95 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 1996 Chevrolet Malibu will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1986 Volkswagen Polo. 1996 Chevrolet Malibu has automatic transmission and 1986 Volkswagen Polo has manual transmission. 1986 Volkswagen Polo will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1996 Chevrolet Malibu will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1996 Chevrolet Malibu | 1986 Volkswagen Polo | |
Make | Chevrolet | Volkswagen |
Model | Malibu | Polo |
Year Released | 1996 | 1986 |
Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 3135 cc | 1041 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | in-line |
Horse Power | 150 HP | 44 HP |
Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 5600 RPM |
Torque | 249 Nm | 95 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 3600 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Front | Front |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 1465 kg | 770 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4850 mm | 3660 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1590 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1360 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2950 mm | 2340 mm |