2003 Chevrolet Malibu vs. 2012 Volkswagen Jetta
To start off, 2012 Volkswagen Jetta 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, 2003 Chevrolet Malibu (200 HP @ 5400 RPM) has 60 more horse power than 2012 Volkswagen Jetta. (140 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Chevrolet Malibu should accelerate faster than 2012 Volkswagen Jetta. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Chevrolet Malibu weights approximately 169 kg more than 2012 Volkswagen Jetta. 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, 2012 Volkswagen Jetta (320 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 22 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Chevrolet Malibu. (298 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 2012 Volkswagen Jetta will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Chevrolet Malibu.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Chevrolet Malibu | 2012 Volkswagen Jetta | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Volkswagen |
| Model | Malibu | Jetta |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Station Wagon |
| 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 | 140 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5400 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 298 Nm | 320 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 1750 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | 6-speed automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1569 kg | 1400 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4780 mm | 4557 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1781 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1480 mm | 1504 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2850 mm | 2578 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 62 L | 55 L |
