2006 Chevrolet Malibu vs. 1982 Volkswagen Rabbit

To start off, 2006 Chevrolet Malibu is newer by 24 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1982 Volkswagen Rabbit. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1982 Volkswagen Rabbit would be higher. At 2,199 cc (4 cylinders), 2006 Chevrolet Malibu is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Chevrolet Malibu (144 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 55 more horse power than 1982 Volkswagen Rabbit. (89 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Chevrolet Malibu should accelerate faster than 1982 Volkswagen Rabbit. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Chevrolet Malibu weights approximately 852 kg more than 1982 Volkswagen Rabbit. 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, 2006 Chevrolet Malibu (210 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 75 more torque (in Nm) than 1982 Volkswagen Rabbit. (135 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2006 Chevrolet Malibu will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1982 Volkswagen Rabbit.

Compare all specifications:

2006 Chevrolet Malibu 1982 Volkswagen Rabbit
Make Chevrolet Volkswagen
Model Malibu Rabbit
Year Released 2006 1982
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 2199 cc 1781 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Horse Power 144 HP 89 HP
Engine RPM 5600 RPM 5000 RPM
Torque 210 Nm 135 Nm
Torque RPM 4000 RPM 3000 RPM
Engine Bore Size 86.1 mm 79.5 mm
Engine Stroke Size 94.5 mm 86.4 mm
Fuel Type Gasoline Gasoline
Drive Type Front Front
Transmission Type Automatic Automatic
Number of Seats 5 seats 4 seats
Vehicle Weight 1752 kg 900 kg
Vehicle Length 4790 mm 3950 mm
Vehicle Width 1780 mm 1620 mm
Vehicle Height 1470 mm 1420 mm
Wheelbase Size 2710 mm 2410 mm