2003 Chevrolet Malibu vs. 2011 Volvo XC70
To start off, 2011 Volvo XC70 is newer by 8 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, 2011 Volvo XC70 (217 HP) has 17 more horse power than 2003 Chevrolet Malibu. (200 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Volvo XC70 should accelerate faster than 2003 Chevrolet Malibu. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Volvo XC70 weights approximately 311 kg more than 2003 Chevrolet Malibu. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2011 Volvo XC70 is all wheel drive (AWD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2003 Chevrolet Malibu. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2011 Volvo XC70 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, 2011 Volvo XC70 (440 Nm @ 1500 RPM) has 142 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Chevrolet Malibu. (298 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 2011 Volvo XC70 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Chevrolet Malibu.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Chevrolet Malibu | 2011 Volvo XC70 | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Volvo |
| Model | Malibu | XC70 |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Sedan | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3500 cc | 2400 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 |
| Torque | 298 Nm | 440 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 1500 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | AWD |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | 6-speed shiftable automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1569 kg | 1880 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4780 mm | 4838 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1862 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1480 mm | 1604 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2850 mm | 2815 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 62 L | 70 L |
