2001 BMW Compact vs. 1998 Chevrolet Malibu
To start off, 2001 BMW Compact is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Chevrolet Malibu. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Chevrolet Malibu would be higher. At 2,501 cc (6 cylinders), 2001 BMW Compact is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 BMW Compact (193 HP @ 7400 RPM) has 44 more horse power than 1998 Chevrolet Malibu. (149 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2001 BMW Compact should accelerate faster than 1998 Chevrolet Malibu. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 BMW Compact weights approximately 194 kg more than 1998 Chevrolet Malibu. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2001 BMW Compact 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 Compact. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1998 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 BMW Compact (237 Nm) has 27 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Chevrolet Malibu. (210 Nm). This means 2001 BMW Compact will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Chevrolet Malibu. 1998 Chevrolet Malibu has automatic transmission and 2001 BMW Compact has manual transmission. 2001 BMW Compact will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1998 Chevrolet Malibu will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2001 BMW Compact | 1998 Chevrolet Malibu | |
| Make | BMW | Chevrolet |
| Model | Compact | Malibu |
| Year Released | 2001 | 1998 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2501 cc | 2392 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 193 HP | 149 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7400 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 237 Nm | 210 Nm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1580 kg | 1386 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4490 mm | 4840 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2720 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 76 L |
