2007 Chevrolet Malibu vs. 2008 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2008 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2007 Chevrolet Malibu. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2007 Chevrolet Malibu would be higher. At 2,399 cc (4 cylinders), 2007 Chevrolet Malibu is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 Chevrolet Malibu (144 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 43 more horse power than 2008 Volkswagen Golf. (101 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2007 Chevrolet Malibu should accelerate faster than 2008 Volkswagen Golf.
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, 2007 Chevrolet Malibu (206 Nm @ 4200 RPM) has 58 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Volkswagen Golf. (148 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 2007 Chevrolet Malibu will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Volkswagen Golf. 2007 Chevrolet Malibu has automatic transmission and 2008 Volkswagen Golf has manual transmission. 2008 Volkswagen Golf will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2007 Chevrolet Malibu will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2007 Chevrolet Malibu | 2008 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Volkswagen |
| Model | Malibu | Golf |
| Year Released | 2007 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2399 cc | 1594 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 144 HP | 101 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 206 Nm | 148 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4200 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4780 mm | 4210 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1480 mm | 1490 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2860 mm | 2590 mm |
