2003 Chevrolet Malibu vs. 1980 Volkswagen Jetta
To start off, 2003 Chevrolet Malibu is newer by 23 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1980 Volkswagen Jetta. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1980 Volkswagen Jetta 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 147 more horse power than 1980 Volkswagen Jetta. (53 HP @ 4800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Chevrolet Malibu should accelerate faster than 1980 Volkswagen Jetta. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Chevrolet Malibu weights approximately 630 kg more than 1980 Volkswagen Jetta. 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 @ 3200 RPM) has 198 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Volkswagen Jetta. (100 Nm @ 2300 RPM). This means 2003 Chevrolet Malibu will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Volkswagen Jetta. 2003 Chevrolet Malibu has automatic transmission and 1980 Volkswagen Jetta has manual transmission. 1980 Volkswagen Jetta 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 | 1980 Volkswagen Jetta | |
Make | Chevrolet | Volkswagen |
Model | Malibu | Jetta |
Year Released | 2003 | 1980 |
Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 3500 cc | 1588 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | in-line |
Horse Power | 200 HP | 53 HP |
Engine RPM | 5400 RPM | 4800 RPM |
Torque | 298 Nm | 100 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 2300 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 94 mm | 76.5 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 84.1 mm | 86.4 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 9.8:1 | 23.0:1 |
Drive Type | Front | Front |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1495 kg | 865 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4790 mm | 4200 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1640 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1420 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2410 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 62 L | 40 L |