2003 BMW M3 vs. 1998 Chevrolet Malibu
To start off, 2003 BMW M3 is newer by 5 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 3,168 cc (6 cylinders), 2003 BMW M3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 BMW M3 (342 HP @ 7900 RPM) has 193 more horse power than 1998 Chevrolet Malibu. (149 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 1998 Chevrolet Malibu. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Chevrolet Malibu weights approximately 1 kg more than 2003 BMW M3.
Because 2003 BMW M3 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 2003 BMW M3. 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, 2003 BMW M3 (350 Nm @ 4900 RPM) has 140 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Chevrolet Malibu. (210 Nm @ 4400 RPM). This means 2003 BMW M3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Chevrolet Malibu. 1998 Chevrolet Malibu has automatic transmission and 2003 BMW M3 has manual transmission. 2003 BMW M3 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:
2003 BMW M3 | 1998 Chevrolet Malibu | |
Make | BMW | Chevrolet |
Model | M3 | Malibu |
Year Released | 2003 | 1998 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 3168 cc | 2392 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 342 HP | 149 HP |
Engine RPM | 7900 RPM | 5600 RPM |
Torque | 350 Nm | 210 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4900 RPM | 4400 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 87 mm | 89.9 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 91 mm | 94 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 11.5:1 | 9.5:1 |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1385 kg | 1386 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4500 mm | 4840 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1770 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1440 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2720 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 76 L |