2003 Chevrolet Malibu vs. 2008 Volvo C30
To start off, 2008 Volvo C30 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. In terms of performance, 2008 Volvo C30 (208 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 8 more horse power than 2003 Chevrolet Malibu. (200 HP @ 5400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Volvo C30 should accelerate faster than 2003 Chevrolet Malibu. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Chevrolet Malibu weights approximately 148 kg more than 2008 Volvo C30.
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, 2008 Volvo C30 (320 Nm @ 1500 RPM) has 22 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Chevrolet Malibu. (298 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 2008 Volvo C30 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Chevrolet Malibu. 2003 Chevrolet Malibu has automatic transmission and 2008 Volvo C30 has manual transmission. 2008 Volvo C30 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 Volvo C30 | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Volvo |
| Model | Malibu | C30 |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3500 cc | 2519 cc |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 200 HP | 208 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 | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1495 kg | 1347 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4790 mm | 4260 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2650 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 62 L | 62 L |
