2006 BMW 325 vs. 1996 Chevrolet Malibu
To start off, 2006 BMW 325 is newer by 10 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 2,497 cc (6 cylinders), 2006 BMW 325 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 BMW 325 (215 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 65 more horse power than 1996 Chevrolet Malibu. (150 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 BMW 325 should accelerate faster than 1996 Chevrolet Malibu. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 BMW 325 weights approximately 450 kg more than 1996 Chevrolet Malibu. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2006 BMW 325 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 2006 BMW 325. 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, 2006 BMW 325 (250 Nm @ 2750 RPM) has 40 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Chevrolet Malibu. (210 Nm @ 4400 RPM). This means 2006 BMW 325 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Chevrolet Malibu. 1996 Chevrolet Malibu has automatic transmission and 2006 BMW 325 has manual transmission. 2006 BMW 325 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1996 Chevrolet Malibu will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 BMW 325 | 1996 Chevrolet Malibu | |
| Make | BMW | Chevrolet |
| Model | 325 | Malibu |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1996 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2497 cc | 2392 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 215 HP | 150 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 250 Nm | 210 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2750 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 78.9 mm | 89.9 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 82 mm | 94 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1835 kg | 1385 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4530 mm | 4850 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2760 mm |
