2000 Chevrolet Malibu vs. 2004 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2004 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2000 Chevrolet Malibu. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2000 Chevrolet Malibu would be higher. At 3,135 cc (6 cylinders), 2000 Chevrolet Malibu is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Volkswagen Golf (197 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 29 more horse power than 2000 Chevrolet Malibu. (168 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Volkswagen Golf should accelerate faster than 2000 Chevrolet Malibu. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2000 Chevrolet Malibu weights approximately 44 kg more than 2004 Volkswagen Golf.
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, 2004 Volkswagen Golf (280 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 23 more torque (in Nm) than 2000 Chevrolet Malibu. (257 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2004 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 2004 Volkswagen Golf has manual transmission. 2004 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 | 2004 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Volkswagen |
| Model | Malibu | Golf |
| Year Released | 2000 | 2004 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3135 cc | 1895 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 168 HP | 197 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 257 Nm | 280 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1380 kg | 1336 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4840 mm | 4220 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2720 mm | 2510 mm |
