1966 BMW 1600 vs. 2003 Chevrolet Malibu

To start off, 2003 Chevrolet Malibu is newer by 37 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1966 BMW 1600. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1966 BMW 1600 would be higher. At 3,500 cc (6 cylinders), 2003 Chevrolet Malibu is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Chevrolet Malibu (200 HP @ 5400 RPM) has 115 more horse power than 1966 BMW 1600. (85 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Chevrolet Malibu should accelerate faster than 1966 BMW 1600. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Chevrolet Malibu weights approximately 649 kg more than 1966 BMW 1600. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 1966 BMW 1600 is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 1966 BMW 1600. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 Chevrolet Malibu, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. 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, 2003 Chevrolet Malibu (298 Nm @ 3200 RPM) has 174 more torque (in Nm) than 1966 BMW 1600. (124 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2003 Chevrolet Malibu will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1966 BMW 1600. 2003 Chevrolet Malibu has automatic transmission and 1966 BMW 1600 has manual transmission. 1966 BMW 1600 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2003 Chevrolet Malibu will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

1966 BMW 1600 2003 Chevrolet Malibu
Make BMW Chevrolet
Model 1600 Malibu
Year Released 1966 2003
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 1574 cc 3500 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 6 cylinders
Engine Type in-line V
Valves per Cylinder 2 valves 2 valves
Horse Power 85 HP 200 HP
Engine RPM 5800 RPM 5400 RPM
Torque 124 Nm 298 Nm
Torque RPM 3000 RPM 3200 RPM
Engine Bore Size 84 mm 94 mm
Engine Stroke Size 71 mm 84.1 mm
Drive Type Rear Front
Transmission Type Manual Automatic
Number of Seats 5 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 2 doors 4 doors
Vehicle Weight 920 kg 1569 kg
Vehicle Length 4240 mm 4780 mm
Vehicle Width 1590 mm 1780 mm
Vehicle Height 1420 mm 1480 mm
Wheelbase Size 2510 mm 2850 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity 45 L 62 L