2004 Volkswagen Polo vs. 2012 Chevrolet Malibu
To start off, 2012 Chevrolet Malibu is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2004 Volkswagen Polo. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2004 Volkswagen Polo would be higher. At 3,600 cc (6 cylinders), 2012 Chevrolet Malibu is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Chevrolet Malibu (252 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 189 more horse power than 2004 Volkswagen Polo. (63 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Chevrolet Malibu should accelerate faster than 2004 Volkswagen Polo.
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, 2012 Chevrolet Malibu (340 Nm @ 3200 RPM) has 215 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Volkswagen Polo. (125 Nm @ 1600 RPM). This means 2012 Chevrolet Malibu will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Volkswagen Polo. 2012 Chevrolet Malibu has automatic transmission and 2004 Volkswagen Polo has manual transmission. 2004 Volkswagen Polo will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2012 Chevrolet Malibu will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Volkswagen Polo | 2012 Chevrolet Malibu | |
| Make | Volkswagen | Chevrolet |
| Model | Polo | Malibu |
| Year Released | 2004 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1896 cc | 3600 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 63 HP | 252 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 6300 RPM |
| Torque | 125 Nm | 340 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1600 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed shiftable automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 3900 mm | 4872 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1660 mm | 1786 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2510 mm | 2852 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 45 L | 61 L |
