2009 Chevrolet Malibu vs. 2006 Volkswagen New Beetle
To start off, 2009 Chevrolet Malibu is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2006 Volkswagen New Beetle. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2006 Volkswagen New Beetle 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 47 more horse power than 2006 Volkswagen New Beetle. (115 HP @ 2400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Chevrolet Malibu should accelerate faster than 2006 Volkswagen New Beetle. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Chevrolet Malibu weights approximately 1223 kg more than 2006 Volkswagen New Beetle. 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 Volkswagen New Beetle (170 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 11 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Chevrolet Malibu. (159 Nm @ 4400 RPM). This means 2006 Volkswagen New Beetle will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Chevrolet Malibu.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Chevrolet Malibu | 2006 Volkswagen New Beetle | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Volkswagen |
| Model | Malibu | New Beetle |
| Year Released | 2009 | 2006 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2399 cc | 1984 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 162 HP | 115 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Torque | 159 Nm | 170 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4400 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.6:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline / Electric Hybrid | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 2385 kg | 1162 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4880 mm | 4090 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1500 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2860 mm | 2510 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 8.1 L/100km | 8.7 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 61 L | 55 L |
