2000 Chevrolet Malibu vs. 1997 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2000 Chevrolet Malibu is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Volkswagen Golf. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Volkswagen Golf 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 54 more horse power than 1997 Volkswagen Golf. (114 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2000 Chevrolet Malibu should accelerate faster than 1997 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2000 Chevrolet Malibu weights approximately 80 kg more than 1997 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, 1997 Volkswagen Golf (285 Nm @ 1900 RPM) has 28 more torque (in Nm) than 2000 Chevrolet Malibu. (257 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1997 Volkswagen Golf will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2000 Chevrolet Malibu. 2000 Chevrolet Malibu has automatic transmission and 1997 Volkswagen Golf has manual transmission. 1997 Volkswagen Golf 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 | 1997 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Volkswagen |
| Model | Malibu | Golf |
| Year Released | 2000 | 1997 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3135 cc | 1896 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 168 HP | 114 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 257 Nm | 285 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 1900 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1380 kg | 1300 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4840 mm | 4400 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1480 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2720 mm | 2520 mm |
