2005 Chevrolet Malibu vs. 2012 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2012 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2005 Chevrolet Malibu. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2005 Chevrolet Malibu would be higher. At 3,490 cc (6 cylinders), 2005 Chevrolet Malibu is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Chevrolet Malibu (200 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 96 more horse power than 2012 Volkswagen Golf. (104 HP @ 4400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Chevrolet Malibu should accelerate faster than 2012 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Chevrolet Malibu weights approximately 7 kg more than 2012 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, 2005 Chevrolet Malibu (298 Nm) has 48 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Volkswagen Golf. (250 Nm). This means 2005 Chevrolet Malibu will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Volkswagen Golf.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Chevrolet Malibu | 2012 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Volkswagen |
| Model | Malibu | Golf |
| Year Released | 2005 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3490 cc | 1600 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 200 HP | 104 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Torque | 298 Nm | 250 Nm |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1508 kg | 1501 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4780 mm | 4246 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1782 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1480 mm | 1423 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2860 mm | 2578 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Highway | 7.8 L/100km | 4.1 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption City | 10.7 L/100km | 5.2 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 9.4 L/100km | 4.4 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 61 L | 55 L |
