1998 BMW 320 vs. 2003 Chevrolet Malibu
To start off, 2003 Chevrolet Malibu is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 BMW 320. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 BMW 320 would be higher. At 3,500 cc (6 cylinders), 2003 Chevrolet Malibu is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Chevrolet Malibu (200 HP @ 5400 RPM) has 66 more horse power than 1998 BMW 320. (134 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Chevrolet Malibu should accelerate faster than 1998 BMW 320. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Chevrolet Malibu weights approximately 19 kg more than 1998 BMW 320. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1998 BMW 320 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 320. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 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, 2003 Chevrolet Malibu (298 Nm @ 3200 RPM) has 18 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 BMW 320. (280 Nm @ 1750 RPM). This means 2003 Chevrolet Malibu will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 BMW 320.
Compare all specifications:
1998 BMW 320 | 2003 Chevrolet Malibu | |
Make | BMW | Chevrolet |
Model | 320 | Malibu |
Year Released | 1998 | 2003 |
Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1951 cc | 3500 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | V |
Horse Power | 134 HP | 200 HP |
Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5400 RPM |
Torque | 280 Nm | 298 Nm |
Torque RPM | 1750 RPM | 3200 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 94 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 88 mm | 84.1 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 19.0:1 | 9.8:1 |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1476 kg | 1495 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4480 mm | 4790 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1780 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1470 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2710 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 62 L |