2007 BMW 130 vs. 2012 Chevrolet Malibu
To start off, 2012 Chevrolet Malibu is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2007 BMW 130. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2007 BMW 130 would be higher. At 2,994 cc (6 cylinders), 2007 BMW 130 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 BMW 130 (261 HP @ 6600 RPM) has 9 more horse power than 2012 Chevrolet Malibu. (252 HP @ 6300 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2007 BMW 130 should accelerate faster than 2012 Chevrolet Malibu.
Because 2007 BMW 130 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 2007 BMW 130. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 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, 2012 Chevrolet Malibu (340 Nm @ 3200 RPM) has 25 more torque (in Nm) than 2007 BMW 130. (315 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2012 Chevrolet Malibu will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2007 BMW 130. 2012 Chevrolet Malibu has automatic transmission and 2007 BMW 130 has manual transmission. 2007 BMW 130 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2012 Chevrolet Malibu will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2007 BMW 130 | 2012 Chevrolet Malibu | |
| Make | BMW | Chevrolet |
| Model | 130 | Malibu |
| Year Released | 2007 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2994 cc | 2400 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 261 HP | 252 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6600 RPM | 6300 RPM |
| Torque | 315 Nm | 340 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed shiftable automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4230 mm | 4872 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1440 mm | 1786 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1760 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2670 mm | 2852 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 53 L | 61 L |
