2003 Chevrolet Malibu vs. 1978 Volkswagen Rabbit
To start off, 2003 Chevrolet Malibu is newer by 25 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Volkswagen Rabbit. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Volkswagen Rabbit would be higher. At 3,135 cc (6 cylinders), 2003 Chevrolet Malibu is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Chevrolet Malibu (168 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 98 more horse power than 1978 Volkswagen Rabbit. (70 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Chevrolet Malibu should accelerate faster than 1978 Volkswagen Rabbit. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Chevrolet Malibu weights approximately 570 kg more than 1978 Volkswagen Rabbit. 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 (257 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 155 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Volkswagen Rabbit. (102 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2003 Chevrolet Malibu will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Volkswagen Rabbit.
Compare all specifications:
2003 Chevrolet Malibu | 1978 Volkswagen Rabbit | |
Make | Chevrolet | Volkswagen |
Model | Malibu | Rabbit |
Year Released | 2003 | 1978 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 3135 cc | 1457 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | in-line |
Horse Power | 168 HP | 70 HP |
Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 5800 RPM |
Torque | 257 Nm | 102 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3500 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 89.1 mm | 79.5 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 84 mm | 73.4 mm |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Front | Front |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
Vehicle Weight | 1380 kg | 810 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4840 mm | 3950 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1620 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1420 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2720 mm | 2410 mm |