1987 BMW Z1 vs. 2008 Chevrolet Malibu
To start off, 2008 Chevrolet Malibu is newer by 21 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1987 BMW Z1. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1987 BMW Z1 would be higher. At 2,494 cc (6 cylinders), 1987 BMW Z1 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1987 BMW Z1 (175 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 11 more horse power than 2008 Chevrolet Malibu. (164 HP @ 6400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1987 BMW Z1 should accelerate faster than 2008 Chevrolet Malibu.
Because 1987 BMW Z1 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 1987 BMW Z1. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 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, 1987 BMW Z1 (230 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 14 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Chevrolet Malibu. (216 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 1987 BMW Z1 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Chevrolet Malibu. 2008 Chevrolet Malibu has automatic transmission and 1987 BMW Z1 has manual transmission. 1987 BMW Z1 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:
| 1987 BMW Z1 | 2008 Chevrolet Malibu | |
| Make | BMW | Chevrolet |
| Model | Z1 | Malibu |
| Year Released | 1987 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Roadster | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2494 cc | 2401 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 175 HP | 164 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 6400 RPM |
| Torque | 230 Nm | 216 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline / Electric Hybrid |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Length | 3960 mm | 4880 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1280 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2860 mm |
