2005 Chevrolet Malibu vs. 1981 Volkswagen Santana
To start off, 2005 Chevrolet Malibu is newer by 24 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Volkswagen Santana. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Volkswagen Santana would be higher. At 3,491 cc (6 cylinders), 2005 Chevrolet Malibu is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Chevrolet Malibu (201 HP) has 142 more horse power than 1981 Volkswagen Santana. (59 HP). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Chevrolet Malibu should accelerate faster than 1981 Volkswagen Santana. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Chevrolet Malibu weights approximately 494 kg more than 1981 Volkswagen Santana. 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, 2005 Chevrolet Malibu (298 Nm) has 198 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Volkswagen Santana. (100 Nm). This means 2005 Chevrolet Malibu will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Volkswagen Santana.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Chevrolet Malibu | 1981 Volkswagen Santana | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Volkswagen |
| Model | Malibu | Santana |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1981 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3491 cc | 1296 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 201 HP | 59 HP |
| Torque | 298 Nm | 100 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 94 mm | 75.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 84 mm | 73.4 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.8:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1459 kg | 965 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4790 mm | 4550 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2560 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 60 L |
