2003 Chevrolet Malibu vs. 1961 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia
To start off, 2003 Chevrolet Malibu is newer by 42 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1961 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1961 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia would be higher. At 3,500 cc (6 cylinders), 2003 Chevrolet Malibu is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Chevrolet Malibu (200 HP @ 5400 RPM) has 157 more horse power than 1961 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia. (43 HP @ 4100 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Chevrolet Malibu should accelerate faster than 1961 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Chevrolet Malibu weights approximately 729 kg more than 1961 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1961 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 1961 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 Chevrolet Malibu, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. 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, 2003 Chevrolet Malibu (298 Nm @ 3200 RPM) has 211 more torque (in Nm) than 1961 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia. (87 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2003 Chevrolet Malibu will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1961 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia. 2003 Chevrolet Malibu has automatic transmission and 1961 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia has manual transmission. 1961 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2003 Chevrolet Malibu will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Chevrolet Malibu | 1961 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Volkswagen |
| Model | Malibu | Karmann-Ghia |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1961 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3500 cc | 1285 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 200 HP | 43 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5400 RPM | 4100 RPM |
| Torque | 298 Nm | 87 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1569 kg | 840 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4780 mm | 4200 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1640 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1480 mm | 1340 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2850 mm | 2430 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 62 L | 40 L |
