2003 Chevrolet Malibu vs. 2007 Volvo V50
To start off, 2007 Volvo V50 is newer by 4 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 3,500 cc (6 cylinders), 2003 Chevrolet Malibu is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 Volvo V50 (217 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 17 more horse power than 2003 Chevrolet Malibu. (200 HP @ 5400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2007 Volvo V50 should accelerate faster than 2003 Chevrolet Malibu. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Chevrolet Malibu weights approximately 90 kg more than 2007 Volvo V50.
Because 2007 Volvo V50 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, 2007 Volvo V50 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, 2007 Volvo V50 (320 Nm @ 1500 RPM) has 22 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Chevrolet Malibu. (298 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 2007 Volvo V50 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Chevrolet Malibu.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Chevrolet Malibu | 2007 Volvo V50 | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Volvo |
| Model | Malibu | V50 |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2007 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3500 cc | 2519 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 200 HP | 217 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5400 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 298 Nm | 320 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 1500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 94 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 84.1 mm | 93.2 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.8:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1569 kg | 1479 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4780 mm | 4520 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1480 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2850 mm | 2650 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 62 L | 62 L |
