2006 BMW 325 vs. 1997 Chevrolet Malibu
To start off, 2006 BMW 325 is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Chevrolet Malibu. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Chevrolet Malibu would be higher. At 2,999 cc, 2006 BMW 325 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 BMW 325 (215 HP @ 6250 RPM) has 65 more horse power than 1997 Chevrolet Malibu. (150 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 BMW 325 should accelerate faster than 1997 Chevrolet Malibu. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Chevrolet Malibu weights approximately 25 kg more than 2006 BMW 325.
Because 2006 BMW 325 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1997 Chevrolet Malibu. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2006 BMW 325 will offer significantly more control. 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 (251 Nm @ 2750 RPM) has 41 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 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 1997 Chevrolet Malibu. 1997 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. 1997 Chevrolet Malibu will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 BMW 325 | 1997 Chevrolet Malibu | |
| Make | BMW | Chevrolet |
| Model | 325 | Malibu |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1997 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2999 cc | 2392 cc |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 215 HP | 150 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6250 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 251 Nm | 210 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2750 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 85.1 mm | 90 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 87.9 mm | 94 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.7:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1360 kg | 1385 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4530 mm | 4850 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 2020 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2760 mm |
