2003 Chevrolet Malibu vs. 2012 Volkswagen Beetle
To start off, 2012 Volkswagen Beetle is newer by 9 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, both vehicles can yield 200 horse power. So under normal driving conditions, the acceleration of both vehicles should be relatively similar. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Chevrolet Malibu weights approximately 189 kg more than 2012 Volkswagen Beetle.
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 18 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Volkswagen Beetle. (280 Nm @ 1700 RPM). This means 2003 Chevrolet Malibu will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Volkswagen Beetle. 2003 Chevrolet Malibu has automatic transmission and 2012 Volkswagen Beetle has manual transmission. 2012 Volkswagen Beetle 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 | 2012 Volkswagen Beetle | |
Make | Chevrolet | Volkswagen |
Model | Malibu | Beetle |
Year Released | 2003 | 2012 |
Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 3500 cc | 2000 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 200 HP | 200 HP |
Engine RPM | 5400 RPM | 5100 RPM |
Torque | 298 Nm | 280 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 1700 RPM |
Drive Type | Front | Front |
Transmission Type | Automatic | 6-speed manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1569 kg | 1380 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4780 mm | 4278 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1808 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1480 mm | 1486 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2850 mm | 2537 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 62 L | 55 L |