2008 Chevrolet Malibu vs. 1979 Volkswagen Beetle
To start off, 2008 Chevrolet Malibu is newer by 29 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1979 Volkswagen Beetle. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 Volkswagen Beetle would be higher. At 3,600 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 Chevrolet Malibu is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Chevrolet Malibu (252 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 209 more horse power than 1979 Volkswagen Beetle. (43 HP @ 4100 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Chevrolet Malibu should accelerate faster than 1979 Volkswagen Beetle.
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, 2008 Chevrolet Malibu (340 Nm @ 3200 RPM) has 254 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Volkswagen Beetle. (86 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2008 Chevrolet Malibu will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Volkswagen Beetle.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Chevrolet Malibu | 1979 Volkswagen Beetle | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Volkswagen |
| Model | Malibu | Beetle |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1979 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3600 cc | 1285 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 252 HP | 43 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 4100 RPM |
| Torque | 340 Nm | 86 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Length | 4880 mm | 4070 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1560 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2860 mm | 2410 mm |
