2004 BMW 318 vs. 2006 Chevrolet Malibu
To start off, 2006 Chevrolet Malibu is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2004 BMW 318. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2004 BMW 318 would be higher. At 3,491 cc (6 cylinders), 2006 Chevrolet Malibu is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Chevrolet Malibu (201 HP @ 5400 RPM) has 87 more horse power than 2004 BMW 318. (114 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Chevrolet Malibu should accelerate faster than 2004 BMW 318. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Chevrolet Malibu weights approximately 450 kg more than 2004 BMW 318. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2004 BMW 318 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 2004 BMW 318. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2006 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, 2006 Chevrolet Malibu (298 Nm @ 3200 RPM) has 118 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 BMW 318. (180 Nm @ 3750 RPM). This means 2006 Chevrolet Malibu will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 BMW 318. 2006 Chevrolet Malibu has automatic transmission and 2004 BMW 318 has manual transmission. 2004 BMW 318 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2006 Chevrolet Malibu will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 BMW 318 | 2006 Chevrolet Malibu | |
| Make | BMW | Chevrolet |
| Model | 318 | Malibu |
| Year Released | 2004 | 2006 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1796 cc | 3491 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 114 HP | 201 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 180 Nm | 298 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3750 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 94 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 81 mm | 84.1 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1300 kg | 1750 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4270 mm | 4780 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1480 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2740 mm | 2860 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 67 L | 61 L |
