2003 Chevrolet Malibu vs. 2008 Volkswagen Sharan
To start off, 2008 Volkswagen Sharan is newer by 5 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. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Volkswagen Sharan weights approximately 99 kg more than 2003 Chevrolet Malibu.
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 (298 Nm @ 3200 RPM) has 88 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Volkswagen Sharan. (210 Nm @ 1800 RPM). This means 2003 Chevrolet Malibu will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Volkswagen Sharan. 2003 Chevrolet Malibu has automatic transmission and 2008 Volkswagen Sharan has manual transmission. 2008 Volkswagen Sharan 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 | 2008 Volkswagen Sharan | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Volkswagen |
| Model | Malibu | Sharan |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Minivan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3500 cc | 1779 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 5 valves |
| Horse Power | 200 HP | 0 HP |
| Torque | 298 Nm | 210 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 94 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 84.1 mm | 86.4 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.8:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 7 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1569 kg | 1668 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4780 mm | 4640 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1480 mm | 1740 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2850 mm | 2850 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 62 L | 70 L |
