1996 Chevrolet Malibu vs. 2006 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2006 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 10 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 28 more horse power than 2006 Volkswagen Golf. (128 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 Chevrolet Malibu should accelerate faster than 2006 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Chevrolet Malibu weights approximately 52 kg more than 2006 Volkswagen Golf. 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, 2006 Volkswagen Golf (310 Nm @ 1900 RPM) has 59 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Chevrolet Malibu. (251 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2006 Volkswagen Golf will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Chevrolet Malibu. 1996 Chevrolet Malibu has automatic transmission and 2006 Volkswagen Golf has manual transmission. 2006 Volkswagen Golf 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 | 2006 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Volkswagen |
| Model | Malibu | Golf |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2006 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3135 cc | 1894 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 156 HP | 128 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 251 Nm | 310 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 1900 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 89 mm | 79.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 84 mm | 95.5 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1406 kg | 1354 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4840 mm | 4400 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1490 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2750 mm | 2520 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 56 L | 55 L |
