2003 Chevrolet Malibu vs. 1981 Volkswagen Santana
To start off, 2003 Chevrolet Malibu is newer by 22 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Volkswagen Santana. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Volkswagen Santana would be higher. At 3,501 cc (6 cylinders), 2003 Chevrolet Malibu is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Chevrolet Malibu (200 HP @ 5400 RPM) has 130 more horse power than 1981 Volkswagen Santana. (70 HP @ 4500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Chevrolet Malibu should accelerate faster than 1981 Volkswagen Santana. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Chevrolet Malibu weights approximately 449 kg more than 1981 Volkswagen Santana. 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 (299 Nm @ 3200 RPM) has 166 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Volkswagen Santana. (133 Nm @ 2600 RPM). This means 2003 Chevrolet Malibu will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Volkswagen Santana. 2003 Chevrolet Malibu has automatic transmission and 1981 Volkswagen Santana has manual transmission. 1981 Volkswagen Santana 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 | 1981 Volkswagen Santana | |
Make | Chevrolet | Volkswagen |
Model | Malibu | Santana |
Year Released | 2003 | 1981 |
Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 3501 cc | 1588 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | in-line |
Horse Power | 200 HP | 70 HP |
Engine RPM | 5400 RPM | 4500 RPM |
Torque | 299 Nm | 133 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 2600 RPM |
Drive Type | Front | Front |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1504 kg | 1055 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4790 mm | 4550 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1700 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1410 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2810 mm | 2560 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 62 L | 60 L |