2004 Chevrolet Malibu vs. 1983 Volvo 240
To start off, 2004 Chevrolet Malibu is newer by 21 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1983 Volvo 240. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1983 Volvo 240 would be higher. At 2,316 cc (4 cylinders), 1983 Volvo 240 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Chevrolet Malibu (146 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 34 more horse power than 1983 Volvo 240. (112 HP @ 5400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Chevrolet Malibu should accelerate faster than 1983 Volvo 240. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Chevrolet Malibu weights approximately 135 kg more than 1983 Volvo 240. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1983 Volvo 240 is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 1983 Volvo 240. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 Chevrolet Malibu, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. 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 Chevrolet Malibu (203 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 18 more torque (in Nm) than 1983 Volvo 240. (185 Nm @ 2750 RPM). This means 2004 Chevrolet Malibu will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1983 Volvo 240. 2004 Chevrolet Malibu has automatic transmission and 1983 Volvo 240 has manual transmission. 1983 Volvo 240 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2004 Chevrolet Malibu will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Chevrolet Malibu | 1983 Volvo 240 | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Volvo |
| Model | Malibu | 240 |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1983 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2198 cc | 2316 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 146 HP | 112 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 203 Nm | 185 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2750 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86 mm | 96 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 94.6 mm | 80 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1435 kg | 1300 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4790 mm | 4790 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2660 mm |
