1996 BMW M3 vs. 2008 Chevrolet Malibu
To start off, 2008 Chevrolet Malibu is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 BMW M3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 BMW M3 would be higher. At 3,001 cc (6 cylinders), 1996 BMW M3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 BMW M3 (326 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 162 more horse power than 2008 Chevrolet Malibu. (164 HP @ 6400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 2008 Chevrolet Malibu.
Because 1996 BMW M3 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 1996 BMW M3. 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, 1996 BMW M3 (305 Nm) has 89 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Chevrolet Malibu. (216 Nm). This means 1996 BMW M3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Chevrolet Malibu. 2008 Chevrolet Malibu has automatic transmission and 1996 BMW M3 has manual transmission. 1996 BMW M3 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:
| 1996 BMW M3 | 2008 Chevrolet Malibu | |
| Make | BMW | Chevrolet |
| Model | M3 | Malibu |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2008 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3001 cc | 2401 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 326 HP | 164 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 6400 RPM |
| Torque | 305 Nm | 216 Nm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4880 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2860 mm |
