2003 Chevrolet Malibu vs. 2008 Volvo S40
To start off, 2008 Volvo S40 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 3,135 cc (6 cylinders), 2003 Chevrolet Malibu is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Chevrolet Malibu (168 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 45 more horse power than 2008 Volvo S40. (123 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Chevrolet Malibu should accelerate faster than 2008 Volvo S40. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Chevrolet Malibu weights approximately 25 kg more than 2008 Volvo S40. 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 (257 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 66 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Volvo S40. (191 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2003 Chevrolet Malibu will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Volvo S40. 2003 Chevrolet Malibu has automatic transmission and 2008 Volvo S40 has manual transmission. 2008 Volvo S40 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 S40 | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Volvo |
| Model | Malibu | S40 |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2008 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3135 cc | 1798 cc |
| Horse Power | 168 HP | 123 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 257 Nm | 191 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 89.1 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 84 mm | 90 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1380 kg | 1355 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4840 mm | 4520 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2720 mm | 2570 mm |
