1996 Chevrolet Malibu vs. 2011 BMW 120
To start off, 2011 BMW 120 is newer by 15 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Chevrolet Malibu. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Chevrolet Malibu would be higher. At 3,135 cc (6 cylinders), 1996 Chevrolet Malibu is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Chevrolet Malibu (156 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 1 more horse power than 2011 BMW 120. (155 HP @ 6700 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 Chevrolet Malibu should accelerate faster than 2011 BMW 120. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Chevrolet Malibu weights approximately 21 kg more than 2011 BMW 120. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2011 BMW 120 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 2011 BMW 120. 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 (251 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 51 more torque (in Nm) than 2011 BMW 120. (200 Nm @ 4250 RPM). This means 1996 Chevrolet Malibu will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2011 BMW 120.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Chevrolet Malibu | 2011 BMW 120 | |
| Make | Chevrolet | BMW |
| Model | Malibu | 120 |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2011 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3135 cc | 1995 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 156 HP | 155 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 6700 RPM |
| Torque | 251 Nm | 200 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4250 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 89 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 84 mm | 90 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1406 kg | 1385 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4840 mm | 4250 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1430 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1750 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2750 mm | 2670 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 56 L | 53 L |
