1997 Chevrolet Malibu vs. 1984 Volkswagen Jetta
To start off, 1997 Chevrolet Malibu is newer by 13 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1984 Volkswagen Jetta. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1984 Volkswagen Jetta would be higher. At 2,392 cc (4 cylinders), 1997 Chevrolet Malibu is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Chevrolet Malibu (150 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 41 more horse power than 1984 Volkswagen Jetta. (109 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 Chevrolet Malibu should accelerate faster than 1984 Volkswagen Jetta. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Chevrolet Malibu weights approximately 435 kg more than 1984 Volkswagen Jetta. 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, 1997 Chevrolet Malibu (210 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 52 more torque (in Nm) than 1984 Volkswagen Jetta. (158 Nm @ 3100 RPM). This means 1997 Chevrolet Malibu will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1984 Volkswagen Jetta. 1997 Chevrolet Malibu has automatic transmission and 1984 Volkswagen Jetta has manual transmission. 1984 Volkswagen Jetta will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1997 Chevrolet Malibu will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Chevrolet Malibu | 1984 Volkswagen Jetta | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Volkswagen |
| Model | Malibu | Jetta |
| Year Released | 1997 | 1984 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2392 cc | 1781 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 150 HP | 109 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 210 Nm | 158 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4400 RPM | 3100 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 90 mm | 81.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 94 mm | 86.4 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1385 kg | 950 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4850 mm | 4320 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2760 mm | 2480 mm |
