2009 Chevrolet Malibu vs. 1997 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 2009 Chevrolet Malibu is newer by 12 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 2,399 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Chevrolet Malibu is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Chevrolet Malibu (162 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 39 more horse power than 1997 Volkswagen Passat. (123 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Chevrolet Malibu should accelerate faster than 1997 Volkswagen Passat. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Chevrolet Malibu weights approximately 1035 kg more than 1997 Volkswagen Passat. 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, 1997 Volkswagen Passat (168 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 9 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Chevrolet Malibu. (159 Nm @ 4400 RPM). This means 1997 Volkswagen Passat will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Chevrolet Malibu. 2009 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. 2009 Chevrolet Malibu will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
2009 Chevrolet Malibu | 1997 Volkswagen Passat | |
Make | Chevrolet | Volkswagen |
Model | Malibu | Passat |
Year Released | 2009 | 1997 |
Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2399 cc | 1780 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 5 valves |
Horse Power | 162 HP | 123 HP |
Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5800 RPM |
Torque | 159 Nm | 168 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4400 RPM | 3500 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline / Electric Hybrid | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Front | Front |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 2385 kg | 1350 kg |
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 |