1996 Chevrolet Malibu vs. 2008 Volkswagen Jetta
To start off, 2008 Volkswagen Jetta is newer by 12 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 2,392 cc (4 cylinders), 1996 Chevrolet Malibu is equipped with a bigger engine. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Chevrolet Malibu weights approximately 35 kg more than 2008 Volkswagen Jetta.
Because 2008 Volkswagen Jetta is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1996 Chevrolet Malibu. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Volkswagen Jetta will offer significantly more control. 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, 2008 Volkswagen Jetta (250 Nm @ 1900 RPM) has 40 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Chevrolet Malibu. (210 Nm @ 4400 RPM). This means 2008 Volkswagen Jetta will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Chevrolet Malibu. 1996 Chevrolet Malibu has automatic transmission and 2008 Volkswagen Jetta has manual transmission. 2008 Volkswagen Jetta 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 | 2008 Volkswagen Jetta | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Volkswagen |
| Model | Malibu | Jetta |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2008 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2392 cc | 1896 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 150 HP | 0 HP |
| Torque | 210 Nm | 250 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4400 RPM | 1900 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 89.9 mm | 79.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 94 mm | 95.5 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 19.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1385 kg | 1350 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4850 mm | 4220 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1490 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2760 mm | 2580 mm |
