2007 BMW 320 vs. 1997 Chevrolet Malibu
To start off, 2007 BMW 320 is newer by 10 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 2,392 cc (4 cylinders), 1997 Chevrolet Malibu is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 BMW 320 (154 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 4 more horse power than 1997 Chevrolet Malibu. (150 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2007 BMW 320 should accelerate faster than 1997 Chevrolet Malibu. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2007 BMW 320 weights approximately 120 kg more than 1997 Chevrolet Malibu. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2007 BMW 320 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 320. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1997 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, 2007 BMW 320 (331 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 121 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Chevrolet Malibu. (210 Nm @ 4400 RPM). This means 2007 BMW 320 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Chevrolet Malibu.
Compare all specifications:
| 2007 BMW 320 | 1997 Chevrolet Malibu | |
| Make | BMW | Chevrolet |
| Model | 320 | Malibu |
| Year Released | 2007 | 1997 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1995 cc | 2392 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 154 HP | 150 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 331 Nm | 210 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 90 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 90 mm | 94 mm |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1505 kg | 1385 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4530 mm | 4850 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1430 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1820 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2760 mm |
