2005 Chevrolet Malibu vs. 1997 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2005 Chevrolet Malibu is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Volkswagen Golf. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Volkswagen Golf 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 (200 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 86 more horse power than 1997 Volkswagen Golf. (114 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Chevrolet Malibu should accelerate faster than 1997 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Chevrolet Malibu weights approximately 296 kg more than 1997 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, 1997 Volkswagen Golf (310 Nm) has 12 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Chevrolet Malibu. (298 Nm). This means 1997 Volkswagen Golf will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Chevrolet Malibu.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Chevrolet Malibu | 1997 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Volkswagen |
| Model | Malibu | Golf |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1997 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3491 cc | 1894 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 200 HP | 114 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 298 Nm | 310 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 94 mm | 79.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 84 mm | 95.5 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.8:1 | 18.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1569 kg | 1273 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4790 mm | 4160 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2630 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 61 L | 55 L |
