2004 Chevrolet Malibu vs. 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle
To start off, 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2004 Chevrolet Malibu. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2004 Chevrolet Malibu 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 47 more horse power than 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle. (150 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Chevrolet Malibu should accelerate faster than 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Chevrolet Malibu weights approximately 288 kg more than 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle. 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 68 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle. (231 Nm @ 3750 RPM). This means 2004 Chevrolet Malibu will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Chevrolet Malibu | 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Volkswagen |
| Model | Malibu | New Beetle |
| Year Released | 2004 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3491 cc | 2480 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 197 HP | 150 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5400 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 299 Nm | 231 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 3750 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1638 kg | 1350 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4790 mm | 4100 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1510 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2860 mm | 2520 mm |
| Fuel Consumption | 7.4 L/100km | 8.1 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 9.1 L/100km | 10.2 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 61 L | 55 L |
