1998 BMW 325 vs. 2001 Chevrolet Malibu
To start off, 2001 Chevrolet Malibu is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 BMW 325. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 BMW 325 would be higher. At 3,135 cc (6 cylinders), 2001 Chevrolet Malibu is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 Chevrolet Malibu (168 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 54 more horse power than 1998 BMW 325. (114 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2001 Chevrolet Malibu should accelerate faster than 1998 BMW 325. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 BMW 325 weights approximately 54 kg more than 2001 Chevrolet Malibu.
Because 1998 BMW 325 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 325. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2001 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, 2001 Chevrolet Malibu (257 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 37 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 BMW 325. (220 Nm @ 1900 RPM). This means 2001 Chevrolet Malibu will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 BMW 325. 2001 Chevrolet Malibu has automatic transmission and 1998 BMW 325 has manual transmission. 1998 BMW 325 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2001 Chevrolet Malibu will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 BMW 325 | 2001 Chevrolet Malibu | |
| Make | BMW | Chevrolet |
| Model | 325 | Malibu |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2001 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2498 cc | 3135 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 114 HP | 168 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 220 Nm | 257 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1900 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 89 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 81 mm | 84 mm |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1434 kg | 1380 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4490 mm | 4840 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2720 mm |
