2003 Chevrolet Malibu vs. 2012 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 2012 Volkswagen Passat 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 3,135 cc (6 cylinders), 2003 Chevrolet Malibu is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Volkswagen Passat (170 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 2 more horse power than 2003 Chevrolet Malibu. (168 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Volkswagen Passat should accelerate faster than 2003 Chevrolet Malibu. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Volkswagen Passat weights approximately 56 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.
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 17 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Volkswagen Passat. (240 Nm @ 4250 RPM). This means 2003 Chevrolet Malibu will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Volkswagen Passat. 2003 Chevrolet Malibu has automatic transmission and 2012 Volkswagen Passat has manual transmission. 2012 Volkswagen Passat 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 Passat | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Volkswagen |
| Model | Malibu | Passat |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3135 cc | 2500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 168 HP | 170 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Torque | 257 Nm | 240 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4250 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | 5-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1380 kg | 1436 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4840 mm | 4769 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2720 mm | 2712 mm |
