1998 BMW 318 vs. 2006 Chevrolet Malibu
To start off, 2006 Chevrolet Malibu is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 BMW 318. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 BMW 318 would be higher. At 3,900 cc (6 cylinders), 2006 Chevrolet Malibu is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Chevrolet Malibu (240 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 100 more horse power than 1998 BMW 318. (140 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Chevrolet Malibu should accelerate faster than 1998 BMW 318.
Because 1998 BMW 318 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 1998 BMW 318. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2006 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, 2006 Chevrolet Malibu (327 Nm @ 2800 RPM) has 147 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 BMW 318. (180 Nm @ 4300 RPM). This means 2006 Chevrolet Malibu will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 BMW 318. 2006 Chevrolet Malibu has automatic transmission and 1998 BMW 318 has manual transmission. 1998 BMW 318 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2006 Chevrolet Malibu will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 BMW 318 | 2006 Chevrolet Malibu | |
| Make | BMW | Chevrolet |
| Model | 318 | Malibu |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2006 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1895 cc | 3900 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 140 HP | 240 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 180 Nm | 327 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4300 RPM | 2800 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4220 mm | 4780 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1480 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2860 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 61 L |
