2004 Chevrolet Malibu vs. 1996 Volkswagen Polo
To start off, 2004 Chevrolet Malibu is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Volkswagen Polo. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Volkswagen Polo would be higher. At 3,491 cc (6 cylinders), 2004 Chevrolet Malibu is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Chevrolet Malibu (197 HP @ 5400 RPM) has 97 more horse power than 1996 Volkswagen Polo. (100 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Chevrolet Malibu should accelerate faster than 1996 Volkswagen Polo. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Chevrolet Malibu weights approximately 552 kg more than 1996 Volkswagen Polo. 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 Chevrolet Malibu (299 Nm @ 3200 RPM) has 159 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Volkswagen Polo. (140 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2004 Chevrolet Malibu will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Volkswagen Polo. 2004 Chevrolet Malibu has automatic transmission and 1996 Volkswagen Polo has manual transmission. 1996 Volkswagen Polo 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 | 1996 Volkswagen Polo | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Volkswagen |
| Model | Malibu | Polo |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1996 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3491 cc | 1595 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 197 HP | 100 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5400 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 299 Nm | 140 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 94 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 84 mm | 77.4 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1638 kg | 1086 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4790 mm | 4150 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1650 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2860 mm | 2410 mm |
