2004 Chevrolet Malibu vs. 2010 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2010 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 6 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 27 more horse power than 2010 Volkswagen Golf. (170 HP @ 5700 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Chevrolet Malibu should accelerate faster than 2010 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Chevrolet Malibu weights approximately 292 kg more than 2010 Volkswagen Golf. 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 59 more torque (in Nm) than 2010 Volkswagen Golf. (240 Nm @ 4250 RPM). This means 2004 Chevrolet Malibu will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2010 Volkswagen Golf. 2004 Chevrolet Malibu has automatic transmission and 2010 Volkswagen Golf has manual transmission. 2010 Volkswagen Golf 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 | 2010 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Volkswagen |
| Model | Malibu | Golf |
| Year Released | 2004 | 2010 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3491 cc | 2500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 197 HP | 170 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5400 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Torque | 299 Nm | 240 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 4250 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1638 kg | 1346 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4790 mm | 4201 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1786 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1481 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2860 mm | 2578 mm |
| Fuel Consumption | 7.4 L/100km | 7.8 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 61 L | 55 L |
