1996 Chevrolet Malibu vs. 2005 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 2005 Volkswagen Passat is newer by 9 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 7 more horse power than 2005 Volkswagen Passat. (149 HP @ 5700 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 Chevrolet Malibu should accelerate faster than 2005 Volkswagen Passat. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Chevrolet Malibu weights approximately 32 kg more than 2005 Volkswagen Passat. 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 41 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Volkswagen Passat. (210 Nm @ 1750 RPM). This means 1996 Chevrolet Malibu will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Volkswagen Passat.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Chevrolet Malibu | 2005 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Volkswagen |
| Model | Malibu | Passat |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2005 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3135 cc | 1781 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 156 HP | 149 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Torque | 251 Nm | 210 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 1750 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 89 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 84 mm | 86.4 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1406 kg | 1374 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4840 mm | 4710 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2750 mm | 2710 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 56 L | 62 L |
