1996 Chevrolet Malibu vs. 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle
To start off, 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Chevrolet Malibu. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Chevrolet Malibu 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 41 more horse power than 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle. (115 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 Chevrolet Malibu should accelerate faster than 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Chevrolet Malibu weights approximately 206 kg more than 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle. 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 (251 Nm) has 85 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle. (166 Nm). This means 1996 Chevrolet Malibu will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Chevrolet Malibu | 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Volkswagen |
| Model | Malibu | New Beetle |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3135 cc | 1968 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 156 HP | 115 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 251 Nm | 166 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 89 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 84 mm | 93 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1406 kg | 1200 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4840 mm | 4100 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1510 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2750 mm | 2680 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 56 L | 55 L |
