2008 Chevrolet Malibu vs. 1997 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 2008 Chevrolet Malibu is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Volkswagen Passat. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Volkswagen Passat would be higher. At 2,771 cc (6 cylinders), 1997 Volkswagen Passat is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Volkswagen Passat (190 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 26 more horse power than 2008 Chevrolet Malibu. (164 HP @ 6400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1997 Volkswagen Passat should accelerate faster than 2008 Chevrolet Malibu.
Because 1997 Volkswagen Passat is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2008 Chevrolet Malibu. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1997 Volkswagen Passat will offer significantly more control. 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, 1997 Volkswagen Passat (280 Nm @ 3200 RPM) has 64 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Chevrolet Malibu. (216 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 1997 Volkswagen Passat will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Chevrolet Malibu. 2008 Chevrolet Malibu has automatic transmission and 1997 Volkswagen Passat has manual transmission. 1997 Volkswagen Passat will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 Chevrolet Malibu will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Chevrolet Malibu | 1997 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Volkswagen |
| Model | Malibu | Passat |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1997 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2401 cc | 2771 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 5 valves |
| Horse Power | 164 HP | 190 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6400 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 216 Nm | 280 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline / Electric Hybrid | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4880 mm | 4680 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2860 mm | 2710 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 61 L | 55 L |
