2006 Chevrolet Malibu vs. 1992 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2006 Chevrolet Malibu is newer by 14 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1992 Volkswagen Golf. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1992 Volkswagen Golf would be higher. At 2,196 cc (4 cylinders), 2006 Chevrolet Malibu is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Chevrolet Malibu (145 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 31 more horse power than 1992 Volkswagen Golf. (114 HP @ 5400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Chevrolet Malibu should accelerate faster than 1992 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Chevrolet Malibu weights approximately 505 kg more than 1992 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, 2006 Chevrolet Malibu (210 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 44 more torque (in Nm) than 1992 Volkswagen Golf. (166 Nm @ 2600 RPM). This means 2006 Chevrolet Malibu will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1992 Volkswagen Golf. 2006 Chevrolet Malibu has automatic transmission and 1992 Volkswagen Golf has manual transmission. 1992 Volkswagen Golf 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 | 1992 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Volkswagen |
| Model | Malibu | Golf |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1992 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2196 cc | 1984 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 145 HP | 114 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 210 Nm | 166 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2600 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86 mm | 82.6 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 94 mm | 92.8 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 10.3:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1750 kg | 1245 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4790 mm | 4350 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2480 mm |
