1996 Chevrolet Malibu vs. 2012 Volvo XC70
To start off, 2012 Volvo XC70 is newer by 16 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, 2012 Volvo XC70 (217 HP) has 61 more horse power than 1996 Chevrolet Malibu. (156 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Volvo XC70 should accelerate faster than 1996 Chevrolet Malibu. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Volvo XC70 weights approximately 474 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.
Because 2012 Volvo XC70 is all wheel drive (AWD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1996 Chevrolet Malibu. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 Volvo XC70 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, 2012 Volvo XC70 (440 Nm @ 1500 RPM) has 189 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Chevrolet Malibu. (251 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2012 Volvo XC70 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Chevrolet Malibu.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Chevrolet Malibu | 2012 Volvo XC70 | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Volvo |
| Model | Malibu | XC70 |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Sedan | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3135 cc | 2400 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 156 HP | 217 HP |
| Torque | 251 Nm | 440 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 1500 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | AWD |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | 6-speed shiftable automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1406 kg | 1880 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4840 mm | 4838 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1862 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1604 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2750 mm | 2815 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 56 L | 70 L |
