2008 BMW X3 vs. 2004 Chevrolet Malibu
To start off, 2008 BMW X3 is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2004 Chevrolet Malibu. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2004 Chevrolet Malibu would be higher. At 3,491 cc (6 cylinders), 2004 Chevrolet Malibu is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Chevrolet Malibu (200 HP) has 38 more horse power than 2008 BMW X3. (162 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Chevrolet Malibu should accelerate faster than 2008 BMW X3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 BMW X3 weights approximately 236 kg more than 2004 Chevrolet Malibu.
Because 2008 BMW X3 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2004 Chevrolet Malibu. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 BMW X3 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, 2008 BMW X3 (330 Nm) has 32 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Chevrolet Malibu. (298 Nm). This means 2008 BMW X3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Chevrolet Malibu. 2004 Chevrolet Malibu has automatic transmission and 2008 BMW X3 has manual transmission. 2008 BMW X3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2004 Chevrolet Malibu will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 BMW X3 | 2004 Chevrolet Malibu | |
| Make | BMW | Chevrolet |
| Model | X3 | Malibu |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2004 |
| Body Type | SUV | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1995 cc | 3491 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 162 HP | 200 HP |
| Torque | 330 Nm | 298 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 94 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 90 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 17.0:1 | 9.8:1 |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1740 kg | 1504 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4570 mm | 4780 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1680 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1480 mm | 1480 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2800 mm | 2950 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 6.5 L/100km | 10 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 67 L | 61 L |
