2003 Chevrolet Malibu vs. 1984 Volvo 740
To start off, 2003 Chevrolet Malibu is newer by 19 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1984 Volvo 740. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1984 Volvo 740 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 87 more horse power than 1984 Volvo 740. (81 HP @ 4800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Chevrolet Malibu should accelerate faster than 1984 Volvo 740. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Chevrolet Malibu weights approximately 40 kg more than 1984 Volvo 740. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1984 Volvo 740 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 1984 Volvo 740. 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 (257 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 114 more torque (in Nm) than 1984 Volvo 740. (143 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 2003 Chevrolet Malibu will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1984 Volvo 740. 2003 Chevrolet Malibu has automatic transmission and 1984 Volvo 740 has manual transmission. 1984 Volvo 740 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 | 1984 Volvo 740 | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Volvo |
| Model | Malibu | 740 |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1984 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3135 cc | 2316 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 168 HP | 81 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Torque | 257 Nm | 143 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1380 kg | 1340 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4840 mm | 4790 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2720 mm | 2780 mm |
