2001 BMW 318 vs. 2009 Chevrolet Malibu
To start off, 2009 Chevrolet Malibu is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2001 BMW 318. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2001 BMW 318 would be higher. At 2,399 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Chevrolet Malibu is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Chevrolet Malibu (170 HP @ 6400 RPM) has 57 more horse power than 2001 BMW 318. (113 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Chevrolet Malibu should accelerate faster than 2001 BMW 318. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 BMW 318 weights approximately 39 kg more than 2009 Chevrolet Malibu.
Because 2001 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 2001 BMW 318. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 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, 2009 Chevrolet Malibu (217 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 50 more torque (in Nm) than 2001 BMW 318. (167 Nm @ 3750 RPM). This means 2009 Chevrolet Malibu will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2001 BMW 318. 2009 Chevrolet Malibu has automatic transmission and 2001 BMW 318 has manual transmission. 2001 BMW 318 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2009 Chevrolet Malibu will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2001 BMW 318 | 2009 Chevrolet Malibu | |
| Make | BMW | Chevrolet |
| Model | 318 | Malibu |
| Year Released | 2001 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1796 cc | 2399 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 113 HP | 170 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6400 RPM |
| Torque | 167 Nm | 217 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3750 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 10.7:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1300 kg | 1261 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4270 mm | 4880 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2740 mm | 2860 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 67 L | 61 L |
