2006 Chevrolet Malibu vs. 2010 BMW 120
To start off, 2010 BMW 120 is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2006 Chevrolet Malibu. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2006 Chevrolet Malibu would be higher. At 3,491 cc (6 cylinders), 2006 Chevrolet Malibu is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Chevrolet Malibu (201 HP @ 5400 RPM) has 33 more horse power than 2010 BMW 120. (168 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Chevrolet Malibu should accelerate faster than 2010 BMW 120. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Chevrolet Malibu weights approximately 225 kg more than 2010 BMW 120. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2010 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 2010 BMW 120. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2006 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, 2010 BMW 120 (340 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 42 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Chevrolet Malibu. (298 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 2010 BMW 120 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Chevrolet Malibu. 2006 Chevrolet Malibu has automatic transmission and 2010 BMW 120 has manual transmission. 2010 BMW 120 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2006 Chevrolet Malibu will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Chevrolet Malibu | 2010 BMW 120 | |
| Make | Chevrolet | BMW |
| Model | Malibu | 120 |
| Year Released | 2006 | 2010 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3491 cc | 1995 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 201 HP | 168 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5400 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 298 Nm | 340 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 94 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 84.1 mm | 90 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1750 kg | 1525 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4780 mm | 4230 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1440 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1480 mm | 1760 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2860 mm | 2670 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 9.6 L/100km | 5.1 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 61 L | 51 L |
