1998 BMW 318 vs. 2010 Chevrolet Malibu
To start off, 2010 Chevrolet Malibu is newer by 12 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 2,400 cc (4 cylinders), 2010 Chevrolet Malibu is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2010 Chevrolet Malibu (170 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 30 more horse power than 1998 BMW 318. (140 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2010 Chevrolet Malibu should accelerate faster than 1998 BMW 318. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2010 Chevrolet Malibu weights approximately 274 kg more than 1998 BMW 318. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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, 2010 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, 2010 Chevrolet Malibu (214 Nm @ 5200 RPM) has 34 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 BMW 318. (180 Nm @ 4300 RPM). This means 2010 Chevrolet Malibu will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 BMW 318. 2010 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. 2010 Chevrolet Malibu will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 BMW 318 | 2010 Chevrolet Malibu | |
| Make | BMW | Chevrolet |
| Model | 318 | Malibu |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2010 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1895 cc | 2400 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 140 HP | 170 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Torque | 180 Nm | 214 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4300 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Flex Fuel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1275 kg | 1549 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4220 mm | 4872 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1786 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2852 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 61 L |
