2006 Chevrolet Malibu vs. 1980 Volvo 240
To start off, 2006 Chevrolet Malibu is newer by 26 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1980 Volvo 240. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1980 Volvo 240 would be higher. At 2,199 cc (4 cylinders), 2006 Chevrolet Malibu is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1980 Volvo 240 (152 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 8 more horse power than 2006 Chevrolet Malibu. (144 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1980 Volvo 240 should accelerate faster than 2006 Chevrolet Malibu. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Chevrolet Malibu weights approximately 312 kg more than 1980 Volvo 240.
Because 1980 Volvo 240 is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 1980 Volvo 240. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2006 Chevrolet Malibu, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. 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, 1980 Volvo 240 (240 Nm @ 3750 RPM) has 30 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Chevrolet Malibu. (210 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1980 Volvo 240 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Chevrolet Malibu. 2006 Chevrolet Malibu has automatic transmission and 1980 Volvo 240 has manual transmission. 1980 Volvo 240 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2006 Chevrolet Malibu will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Chevrolet Malibu | 1980 Volvo 240 | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Volvo |
| Model | Malibu | 240 |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1980 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2199 cc | 1984 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 144 HP | 152 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 210 Nm | 240 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3750 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86.1 mm | 88.9 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 94.5 mm | 80 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 7.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1752 kg | 1440 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4790 mm | 4800 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2650 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 61 L | 60 L |
