2003 Chevrolet Malibu vs. 1974 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2003 Chevrolet Malibu is newer by 29 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1974 Volkswagen Golf. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1974 Volkswagen Golf 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 153 more horse power than 1974 Volkswagen Golf. (47 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Chevrolet Malibu should accelerate faster than 1974 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Chevrolet Malibu weights approximately 819 kg more than 1974 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, 2003 Chevrolet Malibu (298 Nm) has 213 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Volkswagen Golf. (85 Nm). This means 2003 Chevrolet Malibu will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Volkswagen Golf. 2003 Chevrolet Malibu has automatic transmission and 1974 Volkswagen Golf has manual transmission. 1974 Volkswagen Golf 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 | 1974 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Volkswagen |
| Model | Malibu | Golf |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1974 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3500 cc | 1091 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 200 HP | 47 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5400 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 298 Nm | 85 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 94 mm | 69.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 84.1 mm | 72 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.8:1 | 8.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1569 kg | 750 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4780 mm | 3710 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1620 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2850 mm | 2410 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 62 L | 45 L |
