2004 Chevrolet Malibu vs. 2002 Volkswagen Phaeton
To start off, 2004 Chevrolet Malibu is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2002 Volkswagen Phaeton. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2002 Volkswagen Phaeton would be higher. At 3,491 cc (6 cylinders), 2004 Chevrolet Malibu is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Volkswagen Phaeton (237 HP) has 37 more horse power than 2004 Chevrolet Malibu. (200 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2002 Volkswagen Phaeton should accelerate faster than 2004 Chevrolet Malibu. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Volkswagen Phaeton weights approximately 491 kg more than 2004 Chevrolet Malibu. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2002 Volkswagen Phaeton 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 2002 Volkswagen Phaeton. 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, 2002 Volkswagen Phaeton (310 Nm) has 12 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Chevrolet Malibu. (298 Nm). This means 2002 Volkswagen Phaeton will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Chevrolet Malibu. 2004 Chevrolet Malibu has automatic transmission and 2002 Volkswagen Phaeton has manual transmission. 2002 Volkswagen Phaeton 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 | 2002 Volkswagen Phaeton | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Volkswagen |
| Model | Malibu | Phaeton |
| Year Released | 2004 | 2002 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3491 cc | 3189 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 200 HP | 237 HP |
| Torque | 298 Nm | 310 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 94 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 84 mm | 95.9 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.8:1 | 11.3:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1504 kg | 1995 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4780 mm | 5060 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1910 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1480 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2950 mm | 2890 mm |
| Fuel Consumption | 8 L/100km | 8.7 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption City | 10.8 L/100km | 16.1 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 10 L/100km | 11.4 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 61 L | 90 L |
