1996 Volkswagen Passat vs. 2013 Chevrolet Malibu
To start off, 2013 Chevrolet Malibu is newer by 17 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Volkswagen Passat. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Volkswagen Passat would be higher. At 2,500 cc (4 cylinders), 2013 Chevrolet Malibu is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2013 Chevrolet Malibu (187 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 113 more horse power than 1996 Volkswagen Passat. (74 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2013 Chevrolet Malibu should accelerate faster than 1996 Volkswagen Passat. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2013 Chevrolet Malibu weights approximately 360 kg more than 1996 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, 2013 Chevrolet Malibu (244 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 104 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Volkswagen Passat. (140 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2013 Chevrolet Malibu will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Volkswagen Passat. 2013 Chevrolet Malibu has automatic transmission and 1996 Volkswagen Passat has manual transmission. 1996 Volkswagen Passat will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2013 Chevrolet Malibu will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1996 Volkswagen Passat | 2013 Chevrolet Malibu | |
Make | Volkswagen | Chevrolet |
Model | Passat | Malibu |
Year Released | 1996 | 2013 |
Body Type | Station Wagon | Sedan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1781 cc | 2500 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 74 HP | 187 HP |
Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 6200 RPM |
Torque | 140 Nm | 244 Nm |
Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 4500 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 81 mm | 88 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 86.4 mm | 101 mm |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Front | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed automatic |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1210 kg | 1570 kg |
Vehicle Width | 1620 mm | 1854 mm |