1998 Chevrolet Malibu vs. 1986 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 1998 Chevrolet Malibu is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1986 Volkswagen Golf. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1986 Volkswagen Golf would be higher. At 2,392 cc (4 cylinders), 1998 Chevrolet Malibu is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Chevrolet Malibu (149 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 12 more horse power than 1986 Volkswagen Golf. (137 HP @ 6100 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 Chevrolet Malibu should accelerate faster than 1986 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Chevrolet Malibu weights approximately 479 kg more than 1986 Volkswagen Golf. 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, 1998 Chevrolet Malibu (210 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 41 more torque (in Nm) than 1986 Volkswagen Golf. (169 Nm @ 4600 RPM). This means 1998 Chevrolet Malibu will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1986 Volkswagen Golf. 1998 Chevrolet Malibu has automatic transmission and 1986 Volkswagen Golf has manual transmission. 1986 Volkswagen Golf will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1998 Chevrolet Malibu will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1998 Chevrolet Malibu | 1986 Volkswagen Golf | |
Make | Chevrolet | Volkswagen |
Model | Malibu | Golf |
Year Released | 1998 | 1986 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2392 cc | 1781 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 149 HP | 137 HP |
Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 6100 RPM |
Torque | 210 Nm | 169 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4400 RPM | 4600 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 89.9 mm | 81 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 94 mm | 86.4 mm |
Drive Type | Front | Front |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1386 kg | 907 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4840 mm | 3990 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1690 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1410 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2720 mm | 2480 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 76 L | 55 L |