1996 Chevrolet Malibu vs. 2012 BMW 325
To start off, 2012 BMW 325 is newer by 16 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 2,392 cc (4 cylinders), 1996 Chevrolet Malibu is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 BMW 325 (217 HP @ 4400 RPM) has 67 more horse power than 1996 Chevrolet Malibu. (150 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 BMW 325 should accelerate faster than 1996 Chevrolet Malibu.
Because 2012 BMW 325 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 2012 BMW 325. 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, 2012 BMW 325 (450 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 240 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Chevrolet Malibu. (210 Nm @ 4400 RPM). This means 2012 BMW 325 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Chevrolet Malibu. 1996 Chevrolet Malibu has automatic transmission and 2012 BMW 325 has manual transmission. 2012 BMW 325 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:
| 1996 Chevrolet Malibu | 2012 BMW 325 | |
| Make | Chevrolet | BMW |
| Model | Malibu | 325 |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2392 cc | 1995 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 150 HP | 217 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Torque | 210 Nm | 450 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4400 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 89.9 mm | 90 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 94 mm | 84 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | 6-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Length | 4850 mm | 4624 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1811 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1384 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2760 mm | 2810 mm |
