2003 Chevrolet Malibu vs. 1999 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2003 Chevrolet Malibu is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1999 Volkswagen Golf. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1999 Volkswagen Golf would be higher. At 3,500 cc (6 cylinders), 2003 Chevrolet Malibu is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1999 Volkswagen Golf (201 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 1 more horse power than 2003 Chevrolet Malibu. (200 HP @ 5400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1999 Volkswagen Golf should accelerate faster than 2003 Chevrolet Malibu. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Chevrolet Malibu weights approximately 169 kg more than 1999 Volkswagen Golf.
Because 1999 Volkswagen Golf is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2003 Chevrolet Malibu. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1999 Volkswagen Golf will offer significantly more control. 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 13 more torque (in Nm) than 1999 Volkswagen Golf. (285 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 2003 Chevrolet Malibu will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1999 Volkswagen Golf. 2003 Chevrolet Malibu has automatic transmission and 1999 Volkswagen Golf has manual transmission. 1999 Volkswagen Golf 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 | 1999 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Volkswagen |
| Model | Malibu | Golf |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1999 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3500 cc | 2789 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 200 HP | 201 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5400 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 298 Nm | 285 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 94 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 84.1 mm | 90.3 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.8:1 | 10.7:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1569 kg | 1400 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4780 mm | 4160 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1480 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2850 mm | 2520 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 62 L | 55 L |
