2003 Chevrolet Malibu vs. 2002 BMW Z3
To start off, 2003 Chevrolet Malibu is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2002 BMW Z3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2002 BMW Z3 would be higher. At 3,500 cc (6 cylinders), 2003 Chevrolet Malibu is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Chevrolet Malibu (200 HP @ 5400 RPM) has 15 more horse power than 2002 BMW Z3. (185 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Chevrolet Malibu should accelerate faster than 2002 BMW Z3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Chevrolet Malibu weights approximately 214 kg more than 2002 BMW Z3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2002 BMW Z3 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 Z3. 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 (298 Nm @ 3200 RPM) has 61 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 BMW Z3. (237 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2003 Chevrolet Malibu will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 BMW Z3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Chevrolet Malibu | 2002 BMW Z3 | |
| Make | Chevrolet | BMW |
| Model | Malibu | Z3 |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2002 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3500 cc | 2488 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 200 HP | 185 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5400 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 298 Nm | 237 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 94 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 84.1 mm | 74.9 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.8:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1569 kg | 1355 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4780 mm | 4060 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1480 mm | 1300 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2850 mm | 2450 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 62 L | 51 L |
