2003 Chevrolet Malibu vs. 2006 Volkswagen New Beetle
To start off, 2006 Volkswagen New Beetle is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Chevrolet Malibu. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Chevrolet Malibu 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 86 more horse power than 2006 Volkswagen New Beetle. (114 HP @ 5400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Chevrolet Malibu should accelerate faster than 2006 Volkswagen New Beetle. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Chevrolet Malibu weights approximately 105 kg more than 2006 Volkswagen New Beetle. 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 127 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Volkswagen New Beetle. (172 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 2003 Chevrolet Malibu will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Volkswagen New Beetle.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Chevrolet Malibu | 2006 Volkswagen New Beetle | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Volkswagen |
| Model | Malibu | New Beetle |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2006 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3501 cc | 1984 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 200 HP | 114 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5400 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 299 Nm | 172 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 94 mm | 82.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 84.1 mm | 92.8 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1504 kg | 1399 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4790 mm | 4090 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1510 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2810 mm | 2520 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 62 L | 55 L |
