2004 Audi A3 vs. 1997 Chevrolet Malibu
To start off, 2004 Audi A3 is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Chevrolet Malibu. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Chevrolet Malibu would be higher. At 2,392 cc (4 cylinders), 1997 Chevrolet Malibu is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Chevrolet Malibu (150 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 46 more horse power than 2004 Audi A3. (104 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1997 Chevrolet Malibu should accelerate faster than 2004 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Chevrolet Malibu weights approximately 45 kg more than 2004 Audi A3. 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, 2004 Audi A3 (251 Nm @ 1900 RPM) has 41 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Chevrolet Malibu. (210 Nm @ 4400 RPM). This means 2004 Audi A3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Chevrolet Malibu. 1997 Chevrolet Malibu has automatic transmission and 2004 Audi A3 has manual transmission. 2004 Audi A3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1997 Chevrolet Malibu will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Audi A3 | 1997 Chevrolet Malibu | |
| Make | Audi | Chevrolet |
| Model | A3 | Malibu |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1997 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1984 cc | 2392 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 104 HP | 150 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 251 Nm | 210 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1900 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 79.5 mm | 90 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 95.5 mm | 94 mm |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1340 kg | 1385 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4850 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2760 mm |
