2004 Chevrolet Malibu vs. 2009 BMW Z4
To start off, 2009 BMW Z4 is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2004 Chevrolet Malibu. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2004 Chevrolet Malibu would be higher. At 3,491 cc (6 cylinders), 2004 Chevrolet Malibu is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 BMW Z4 (215 HP) has 15 more horse power than 2004 Chevrolet Malibu. (200 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2009 BMW Z4 should accelerate faster than 2004 Chevrolet Malibu. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Chevrolet Malibu weights approximately 142 kg more than 2009 BMW Z4.
Because 2009 BMW Z4 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 2009 BMW Z4. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 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 Chevrolet Malibu (298 Nm) has 48 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 BMW Z4. (250 Nm). This means 2004 Chevrolet Malibu will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 BMW Z4.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Chevrolet Malibu | 2009 BMW Z4 | |
| Make | Chevrolet | BMW |
| Model | Malibu | Z4 |
| Year Released | 2004 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3491 cc | 2497 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 200 HP | 215 HP |
| Torque | 298 Nm | 250 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 94 mm | 82 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 84 mm | 78.8 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.8:1 | 11.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1504 kg | 1362 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4780 mm | 4100 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1310 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1480 mm | 1790 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2950 mm | 2500 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 10 L/100km | 8.4 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 61 L | 55 L |
