1998 BMW Z3 vs. 1999 Chevrolet Malibu
To start off, 1999 Chevrolet Malibu is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 BMW Z3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 BMW Z3 would be higher. At 3,201 cc (6 cylinders), 1998 BMW Z3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 BMW Z3 (240 HP @ 7400 RPM) has 90 more horse power than 1999 Chevrolet Malibu. (150 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 BMW Z3 should accelerate faster than 1999 Chevrolet Malibu. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 BMW Z3 weights approximately 9 kg more than 1999 Chevrolet Malibu. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1998 BMW Z3 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 Z3. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1999 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, 1998 BMW Z3 (320 Nm) has 110 more torque (in Nm) than 1999 Chevrolet Malibu. (210 Nm). This means 1998 BMW Z3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1999 Chevrolet Malibu. 1999 Chevrolet Malibu has automatic transmission and 1998 BMW Z3 has manual transmission. 1998 BMW Z3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1999 Chevrolet Malibu will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1998 BMW Z3 | 1999 Chevrolet Malibu | |
Make | BMW | Chevrolet |
Model | Z3 | Malibu |
Year Released | 1998 | 1999 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 3201 cc | 2392 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 240 HP | 150 HP |
Engine RPM | 7400 RPM | 5600 RPM |
Torque | 320 Nm | 210 Nm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 9.5:1 |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1395 kg | 1386 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4030 mm | 4850 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1770 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1310 mm | 1440 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2760 mm |