1999 BMW 318 vs. 2003 Chevrolet Malibu
To start off, 2003 Chevrolet Malibu is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1999 BMW 318. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1999 BMW 318 would be higher. At 3,501 cc (6 cylinders), 2003 Chevrolet Malibu is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Chevrolet Malibu (200 HP @ 5400 RPM) has 86 more horse power than 1999 BMW 318. (114 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Chevrolet Malibu should accelerate faster than 1999 BMW 318. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Chevrolet Malibu weights approximately 59 kg more than 1999 BMW 318. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1999 BMW 318 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 1999 BMW 318. 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 (299 Nm @ 3200 RPM) has 131 more torque (in Nm) than 1999 BMW 318. (168 Nm @ 3900 RPM). This means 2003 Chevrolet Malibu will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1999 BMW 318. 2003 Chevrolet Malibu has automatic transmission and 1999 BMW 318 has manual transmission. 1999 BMW 318 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:
| 1999 BMW 318 | 2003 Chevrolet Malibu | |
| Make | BMW | Chevrolet |
| Model | 318 | Malibu |
| Year Released | 1999 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1796 cc | 3501 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 114 HP | 200 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 168 Nm | 299 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3900 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 | 1445 kg | 1504 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4790 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1360 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2810 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 62 L |
