2008 BMW Z4 vs. 2006 Chevrolet Malibu
To start off, 2008 BMW Z4 is newer by 2 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, 2008 BMW Z4 (255 HP @ 6600 RPM) has 54 more horse power than 2006 Chevrolet Malibu. (201 HP @ 5400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 BMW Z4 should accelerate faster than 2006 Chevrolet Malibu. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Chevrolet Malibu weights approximately 365 kg more than 2008 BMW Z4.
Because 2008 BMW Z4 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 2008 BMW Z4. 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, 2008 BMW Z4 (299 Nm @ 2750 RPM) has 1 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Chevrolet Malibu. (298 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 2008 BMW Z4 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Chevrolet Malibu. 2006 Chevrolet Malibu has automatic transmission and 2008 BMW Z4 has manual transmission. 2008 BMW Z4 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:
| 2008 BMW Z4 | 2006 Chevrolet Malibu | |
| Make | BMW | Chevrolet |
| Model | Z4 | Malibu |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2006 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2996 cc | 3491 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 255 HP | 201 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6600 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 299 Nm | 298 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2750 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1385 kg | 1750 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4100 mm | 4780 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1310 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1790 mm | 1480 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2500 mm | 2860 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Highway | 8.4 L/100km | 8 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption City | 11.8 L/100km | 10.8 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 8.6 L/100km | 9.6 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 61 L |
