1998 BMW 328 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 328. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 BMW 328 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 9 more horse power than 1998 BMW 328. (191 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Chevrolet Malibu should accelerate faster than 1998 BMW 328. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 BMW 328 weights approximately 61 kg more than 2003 Chevrolet Malibu.
Because 1998 BMW 328 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 328. 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 328. (280 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2003 Chevrolet Malibu will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 BMW 328. 2003 Chevrolet Malibu has automatic transmission and 1998 BMW 328 has manual transmission. 1998 BMW 328 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2003 Chevrolet Malibu will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 BMW 328 | 2003 Chevrolet Malibu | |
| Make | BMW | Chevrolet |
| Model | 328 | Malibu |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2793 cc | 3500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 191 HP | 200 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 280 Nm | 298 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1630 kg | 1569 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4490 mm | 4780 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1480 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2850 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 62 L | 62 L |
