1985 BMW 325 vs. 2004 Chevrolet Malibu
To start off, 2004 Chevrolet Malibu is newer by 19 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1985 BMW 325. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1985 BMW 325 would be higher. At 2,693 cc (6 cylinders), 1985 BMW 325 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Chevrolet Malibu (146 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 26 more horse power than 1985 BMW 325. (120 HP @ 4250 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Chevrolet Malibu should accelerate faster than 1985 BMW 325. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Chevrolet Malibu weights approximately 273 kg more than 1985 BMW 325. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1985 BMW 325 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 1985 BMW 325. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 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, 1985 BMW 325 (230 Nm @ 3250 RPM) has 27 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Chevrolet Malibu. (203 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1985 BMW 325 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Chevrolet Malibu. 2004 Chevrolet Malibu has automatic transmission and 1985 BMW 325 has manual transmission. 1985 BMW 325 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2004 Chevrolet Malibu will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1985 BMW 325 | 2004 Chevrolet Malibu | |
| Make | BMW | Chevrolet |
| Model | 325 | Malibu |
| Year Released | 1985 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2693 cc | 2198 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 120 HP | 146 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4250 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 230 Nm | 203 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3250 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 81 mm | 94.6 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1162 kg | 1435 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4330 mm | 4790 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1650 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2630 mm | 2710 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 61 L |
