1988 BMW Z1 vs. 2004 Chevrolet Malibu
To start off, 2004 Chevrolet Malibu is newer by 16 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 BMW Z1. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 BMW Z1 would be higher. At 3,491 cc (6 cylinders), 2004 Chevrolet Malibu is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Chevrolet Malibu (200 HP) has 25 more horse power than 1988 BMW Z1. (175 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Chevrolet Malibu should accelerate faster than 1988 BMW Z1. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Chevrolet Malibu weights approximately 254 kg more than 1988 BMW Z1. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1988 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 1988 BMW Z1. 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, 2004 Chevrolet Malibu (298 Nm) has 68 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 BMW Z1. (230 Nm). This means 2004 Chevrolet Malibu will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 BMW Z1. 2004 Chevrolet Malibu has automatic transmission and 1988 BMW Z1 has manual transmission. 1988 BMW Z1 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:
| 1988 BMW Z1 | 2004 Chevrolet Malibu | |
| Make | BMW | Chevrolet |
| Model | Z1 | Malibu |
| Year Released | 1988 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Roadster | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2492 cc | 3491 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 175 HP | 200 HP |
| Torque | 230 Nm | 298 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 82 mm | 94 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 78.8 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 9.8:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1250 kg | 1504 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3960 mm | 4780 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1280 mm | 1480 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2950 mm |
