2003 Chevrolet Malibu vs. 1979 Volkswagen 1302
To start off, 2003 Chevrolet Malibu is newer by 24 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1979 Volkswagen 1302. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 Volkswagen 1302 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 166 more horse power than 1979 Volkswagen 1302. (34 HP @ 3600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Chevrolet Malibu should accelerate faster than 1979 Volkswagen 1302. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Chevrolet Malibu weights approximately 819 kg more than 1979 Volkswagen 1302. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1979 Volkswagen 1302 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 1979 Volkswagen 1302. 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 214 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Volkswagen 1302. (84 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 2003 Chevrolet Malibu will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Volkswagen 1302. 2003 Chevrolet Malibu has automatic transmission and 1979 Volkswagen 1302 has manual transmission. 1979 Volkswagen 1302 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 | 1979 Volkswagen 1302 | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Volkswagen |
| Model | Malibu | 1302 |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1979 |
| Engine Position | Front | Rear |
| Engine Size | 3500 cc | 1192 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 200 HP | 34 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5400 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Torque | 298 Nm | 84 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 94 mm | 77 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 84.1 mm | 64 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1569 kg | 750 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4780 mm | 4070 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1560 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1480 mm | 1510 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2850 mm | 2410 mm |
