2000 Chevrolet Malibu vs. 1989 Volkswagen Jetta
To start off, 2000 Chevrolet Malibu is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1989 Volkswagen Jetta. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1989 Volkswagen Jetta would be higher. At 3,135 cc (6 cylinders), 2000 Chevrolet Malibu is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2000 Chevrolet Malibu (168 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 114 more horse power than 1989 Volkswagen Jetta. (54 HP @ 5400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2000 Chevrolet Malibu should accelerate faster than 1989 Volkswagen Jetta. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2000 Chevrolet Malibu weights approximately 505 kg more than 1989 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, 2000 Chevrolet Malibu (257 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 161 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Volkswagen Jetta. (96 Nm @ 3300 RPM). This means 2000 Chevrolet Malibu will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Volkswagen Jetta. 2000 Chevrolet Malibu has automatic transmission and 1989 Volkswagen Jetta has manual transmission. 1989 Volkswagen Jetta will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2000 Chevrolet Malibu will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2000 Chevrolet Malibu | 1989 Volkswagen Jetta | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Volkswagen |
| Model | Malibu | Jetta |
| Year Released | 2000 | 1989 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3135 cc | 1272 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 168 HP | 54 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 257 Nm | 96 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3300 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1380 kg | 875 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4840 mm | 4320 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2720 mm | 2480 mm |
