1992 BMW 540 vs. 2001 Chevrolet Malibu
To start off, 2001 Chevrolet Malibu is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1992 BMW 540. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1992 BMW 540 would be higher. At 3,980 cc (8 cylinders), 1992 BMW 540 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1992 BMW 540 (282 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 114 more horse power than 2001 Chevrolet Malibu. (168 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1992 BMW 540 should accelerate faster than 2001 Chevrolet Malibu. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1992 BMW 540 weights approximately 270 kg more than 2001 Chevrolet Malibu. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1992 BMW 540 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 1992 BMW 540. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2001 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, 1992 BMW 540 (400 Nm @ 5100 RPM) has 143 more torque (in Nm) than 2001 Chevrolet Malibu. (257 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1992 BMW 540 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2001 Chevrolet Malibu.
Compare all specifications:
| 1992 BMW 540 | 2001 Chevrolet Malibu | |
| Make | BMW | Chevrolet |
| Model | 540 | Malibu |
| Year Released | 1992 | 2001 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3980 cc | 3135 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 282 HP | 168 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 400 Nm | 257 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5100 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 89 mm | 89 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 80 mm | 84 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1650 kg | 1380 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4730 mm | 4840 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2720 mm |
