1997 Chevrolet Malibu vs. 2012 Volkswagen Polo
To start off, 2012 Volkswagen Polo is newer by 15 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 2,392 cc (4 cylinders), 1997 Chevrolet Malibu is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Chevrolet Malibu (150 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 61 more horse power than 2012 Volkswagen Polo. (89 HP @ 4200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 Chevrolet Malibu should accelerate faster than 2012 Volkswagen Polo. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Chevrolet Malibu weights approximately 228 kg more than 2012 Volkswagen Polo. 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, 2012 Volkswagen Polo (230 Nm @ 1500 RPM) has 20 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Chevrolet Malibu. (210 Nm @ 4400 RPM). This means 2012 Volkswagen Polo will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Chevrolet Malibu. 1997 Chevrolet Malibu has automatic transmission and 2012 Volkswagen Polo has manual transmission. 2012 Volkswagen Polo 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 | 2012 Volkswagen Polo | |
Make | Chevrolet | Volkswagen |
Model | Malibu | Polo |
Year Released | 1997 | 2012 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2392 cc | 1200 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 150 HP | 89 HP |
Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 4200 RPM |
Torque | 210 Nm | 230 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4400 RPM | 1500 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
Drive Type | Front | Front |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 1385 kg | 1157 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4850 mm | 3970 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1682 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1462 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2760 mm | 2470 mm |