2004 BMW 320 vs. 1996 Chevrolet Malibu
To start off, 2004 BMW 320 is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Chevrolet Malibu. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Chevrolet Malibu would be higher. At 3,135 cc (6 cylinders), 1996 Chevrolet Malibu is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Chevrolet Malibu (150 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 2 more horse power than 2004 BMW 320. (148 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1996 Chevrolet Malibu should accelerate faster than 2004 BMW 320. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 BMW 320 weights approximately 25 kg more than 1996 Chevrolet Malibu.
Because 2004 BMW 320 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 320. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1996 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 BMW 320 (355 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 106 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Chevrolet Malibu. (249 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 2004 BMW 320 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Chevrolet Malibu.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 BMW 320 | 1996 Chevrolet Malibu | |
| Make | BMW | Chevrolet |
| Model | 320 | Malibu |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1996 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1993 cc | 3135 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 150 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Torque | 355 Nm | 249 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1490 kg | 1465 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4480 mm | 4850 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2950 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 56 L |
