1998 BMW 323 vs. 1996 Chevrolet Malibu
To start off, 1998 BMW 323 is newer by 2 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 3,135 cc (6 cylinders), 1996 Chevrolet Malibu is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 BMW 323 (169 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 13 more horse power than 1996 Chevrolet Malibu. (156 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 BMW 323 should accelerate faster than 1996 Chevrolet Malibu. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 BMW 323 weights approximately 24 kg more than 1996 Chevrolet Malibu. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1998 BMW 323 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 323. 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, 1996 Chevrolet Malibu (251 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 6 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 BMW 323. (245 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1996 Chevrolet Malibu will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 BMW 323. 1996 Chevrolet Malibu has automatic transmission and 1998 BMW 323 has manual transmission. 1998 BMW 323 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:
1998 BMW 323 | 1996 Chevrolet Malibu | |
Make | BMW | Chevrolet |
Model | 323 | Malibu |
Year Released | 1998 | 1996 |
Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2494 cc | 3135 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | V |
Horse Power | 169 HP | 156 HP |
Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5200 RPM |
Torque | 245 Nm | 251 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 89 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 75 mm | 84 mm |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1430 kg | 1406 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4490 mm | 4840 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1770 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1440 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2750 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 56 L |