1998 BMW 320 vs. 2005 Chevrolet Malibu
To start off, 2005 Chevrolet Malibu is newer by 7 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 3,491 cc (6 cylinders), 2005 Chevrolet Malibu is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Chevrolet Malibu (200 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 50 more horse power than 1998 BMW 320. (150 HP @ 5900 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Chevrolet Malibu should accelerate faster than 1998 BMW 320. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Chevrolet Malibu weights approximately 259 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, 2005 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, 2005 Chevrolet Malibu (298 Nm) has 108 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 BMW 320. (190 Nm). This means 2005 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 | 2005 Chevrolet Malibu | |
| Make | BMW | Chevrolet |
| Model | 320 | Malibu |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2005 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1990 cc | 3491 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 150 HP | 200 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5900 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 190 Nm | 298 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 94 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 66 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 9.8:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1310 kg | 1569 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4790 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2650 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 65 L | 61 L |
