1997 Chevrolet Malibu vs. 2003 Volvo S40
To start off, 2003 Volvo S40 is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Chevrolet Malibu. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Chevrolet Malibu would be higher. At 2,435 cc (5 cylinders), 2003 Volvo S40 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Volvo S40 (161 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 11 more horse power than 1997 Chevrolet Malibu. (150 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Volvo S40 should accelerate faster than 1997 Chevrolet Malibu. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Volvo S40 weights approximately 71 kg more than 1997 Chevrolet Malibu. 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, 2003 Volvo S40 (230 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 20 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Chevrolet Malibu. (210 Nm @ 4400 RPM). This means 2003 Volvo S40 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Chevrolet Malibu. 1997 Chevrolet Malibu has automatic transmission and 2003 Volvo S40 has manual transmission. 2003 Volvo S40 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 | 2003 Volvo S40 | |
Make | Chevrolet | Volvo |
Model | Malibu | S40 |
Year Released | 1997 | 2003 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2392 cc | 2435 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 150 HP | 161 HP |
Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5000 RPM |
Torque | 210 Nm | 230 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4400 RPM | 4000 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 90 mm | 83 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 94 mm | 90 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 10.3:1 |
Drive Type | Front | Front |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 1385 kg | 1456 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4850 mm | 4590 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1780 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1460 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2760 mm | 2720 mm |