1998 Chevrolet Malibu vs. 2003 Volkswagen New Beetle
To start off, 2003 Volkswagen New Beetle is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Chevrolet Malibu. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Chevrolet Malibu 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 79 more horse power than 2003 Volkswagen New Beetle. (70 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 Chevrolet Malibu should accelerate faster than 2003 Volkswagen New Beetle. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Chevrolet Malibu weights approximately 118 kg more than 2003 Volkswagen New Beetle. 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 80 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Volkswagen New Beetle. (130 Nm @ 3300 RPM). This means 1998 Chevrolet Malibu will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Volkswagen New Beetle. 1998 Chevrolet Malibu has automatic transmission and 2003 Volkswagen New Beetle has manual transmission. 2003 Volkswagen New Beetle 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 | 2003 Volkswagen New Beetle | |
Make | Chevrolet | Volkswagen |
Model | Malibu | New Beetle |
Year Released | 1998 | 2003 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2392 cc | 1390 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 149 HP | 70 HP |
Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5000 RPM |
Torque | 210 Nm | 130 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4400 RPM | 3300 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 89.9 mm | 76.5 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 94 mm | 75.6 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 10.5:1 |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Front | Front |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1386 kg | 1268 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4840 mm | 4100 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1730 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1520 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2720 mm | 3010 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 76 L | 55 L |