2004 BMW 320 vs. 2005 Chevrolet Malibu
To start off, 2005 Chevrolet Malibu is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2004 BMW 320. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2004 BMW 320 would be higher. At 3,491 cc (6 cylinders), 2005 Chevrolet Malibu is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Chevrolet Malibu (200 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 26 more horse power than 2004 BMW 320. (174 HP @ 6100 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 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 46 kg more than 2005 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, 2005 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, 2005 Chevrolet Malibu (298 Nm) has 87 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 BMW 320. (211 Nm). This means 2005 Chevrolet Malibu will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 BMW 320. 2005 Chevrolet Malibu has automatic transmission and 2004 BMW 320 has manual transmission. 2004 BMW 320 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2005 Chevrolet Malibu will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 BMW 320 | 2005 Chevrolet Malibu | |
| Make | BMW | Chevrolet |
| Model | 320 | Malibu |
| Year Released | 2004 | 2005 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2171 cc | 3491 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 174 HP | 200 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6100 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 211 Nm | 298 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 94 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 72 mm | 84 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1615 kg | 1569 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4490 mm | 4780 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1480 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2860 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 9.4 L/100km | 9.6 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 61 L |
