2003 Chevrolet Malibu vs. 2008 BMW 316
To start off, 2008 BMW 316 is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Chevrolet Malibu. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Chevrolet Malibu 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 87 more horse power than 2008 BMW 316. (113 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Chevrolet Malibu should accelerate faster than 2008 BMW 316. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Chevrolet Malibu weights approximately 104 kg more than 2008 BMW 316. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2008 BMW 316 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 2008 BMW 316. 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 123 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 BMW 316. (175 Nm @ 3750 RPM). This means 2003 Chevrolet Malibu will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 BMW 316.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Chevrolet Malibu | 2008 BMW 316 | |
| Make | Chevrolet | BMW |
| Model | Malibu | 316 |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3500 cc | 1796 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 200 HP | 113 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5400 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 298 Nm | 175 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 3750 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.8:1 | 11.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1569 kg | 1465 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4780 mm | 4480 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1480 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2850 mm | 2730 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 62 L | 63 L |
