1996 Chevrolet Malibu vs. 2004 Volvo S80
To start off, 2004 Volvo S80 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, 2004 Volvo S80 (167 HP @ 5900 RPM) has 11 more horse power than 1996 Chevrolet Malibu. (156 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Volvo S80 should accelerate faster than 1996 Chevrolet Malibu. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Volvo S80 weights approximately 126 kg more than 1996 Chevrolet Malibu. 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 @ 4000 RPM) has 21 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Volvo S80. (230 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 1996 Chevrolet Malibu will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Volvo S80. 1996 Chevrolet Malibu has automatic transmission and 2004 Volvo S80 has manual transmission. 2004 Volvo S80 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 | 2004 Volvo S80 | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Volvo |
| Model | Malibu | S80 |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3135 cc | 2399 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 156 HP | 167 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 5900 RPM |
| Torque | 251 Nm | 230 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 89 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 84 mm | 90 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1406 kg | 1532 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4840 mm | 4830 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1840 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2750 mm | 2650 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 56 L | 70 L |
