1990 BMW 316 vs. 1996 Chevrolet Malibu
To start off, 1996 Chevrolet Malibu is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1990 BMW 316. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1990 BMW 316 would be higher. At 2,392 cc (4 cylinders), 1996 Chevrolet Malibu is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Chevrolet Malibu (150 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 50 more horse power than 1990 BMW 316. (100 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1996 Chevrolet Malibu should accelerate faster than 1990 BMW 316. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Chevrolet Malibu weights approximately 305 kg more than 1990 BMW 316. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1990 BMW 316 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 1990 BMW 316. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1996 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, 1996 Chevrolet Malibu (210 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 69 more torque (in Nm) than 1990 BMW 316. (141 Nm @ 4250 RPM). This means 1996 Chevrolet Malibu will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1990 BMW 316. 1996 Chevrolet Malibu has automatic transmission and 1990 BMW 316 has manual transmission. 1990 BMW 316 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1996 Chevrolet Malibu will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1990 BMW 316 | 1996 Chevrolet Malibu | |
| Make | BMW | Chevrolet |
| Model | 316 | Malibu |
| Year Released | 1990 | 1996 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1596 cc | 2392 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 100 HP | 150 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 141 Nm | 210 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4250 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1080 kg | 1385 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4330 mm | 4850 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1650 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2760 mm |
