2002 BMW Z4 vs. 2004 Chevrolet Malibu
To start off, 2004 Chevrolet Malibu is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2002 BMW Z4. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2002 BMW Z4 would be higher. At 3,491 cc (6 cylinders), 2004 Chevrolet Malibu is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Chevrolet Malibu (200 HP) has 10 more horse power than 2002 BMW Z4. (190 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Chevrolet Malibu should accelerate faster than 2002 BMW Z4. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Chevrolet Malibu weights approximately 109 kg more than 2002 BMW Z4. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2002 BMW Z4 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 2002 BMW Z4. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 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, 2004 Chevrolet Malibu (298 Nm) has 53 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 BMW Z4. (245 Nm). This means 2004 Chevrolet Malibu will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 BMW Z4. 2004 Chevrolet Malibu has automatic transmission and 2002 BMW Z4 has manual transmission. 2002 BMW Z4 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2004 Chevrolet Malibu will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 BMW Z4 | 2004 Chevrolet Malibu | |
| Make | BMW | Chevrolet |
| Model | Z4 | Malibu |
| Year Released | 2002 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2494 cc | 3491 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 190 HP | 200 HP |
| Torque | 245 Nm | 298 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 94 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 75 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 9.8:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1395 kg | 1504 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4100 mm | 4780 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1310 mm | 1480 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2950 mm |
| Fuel Consumption | 6.9 L/100km | 8 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption City | 12.5 L/100km | 10.8 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 8.9 L/100km | 10 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 61 L |
