2005 Chevrolet Malibu vs. 2011 BMW 120
To start off, 2011 BMW 120 is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2005 Chevrolet Malibu. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2005 Chevrolet Malibu would be higher. At 3,490 cc (6 cylinders), 2005 Chevrolet Malibu is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Chevrolet Malibu (200 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 46 more horse power than 2011 BMW 120. (154 HP @ 6700 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Chevrolet Malibu should accelerate faster than 2011 BMW 120. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 BMW 120 weights approximately 17 kg more than 2005 Chevrolet Malibu.
Because 2011 BMW 120 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 2011 BMW 120. 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 98 more torque (in Nm) than 2011 BMW 120. (200 Nm). This means 2005 Chevrolet Malibu will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2011 BMW 120.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Chevrolet Malibu | 2011 BMW 120 | |
| Make | Chevrolet | BMW |
| Model | Malibu | 120 |
| Year Released | 2005 | 2011 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3490 cc | 1995 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 200 HP | 154 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 6700 RPM |
| Torque | 298 Nm | 200 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 94 mm | 84.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 84 mm | 90 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.8:1 | 12.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1508 kg | 1525 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4780 mm | 4250 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1430 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1480 mm | 1750 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2860 mm | 2670 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 9.4 L/100km | 6.6 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 61 L | 53 L |
