2008 Chevrolet Malibu vs. 2011 BMW 120
To start off, 2011 BMW 120 is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2008 Chevrolet Malibu. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2008 Chevrolet Malibu would be higher. At 2,401 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Chevrolet Malibu is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Chevrolet Malibu (170 HP @ 6400 RPM) has 2 more horse power than 2011 BMW 120. (168 HP @ 6700 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Chevrolet Malibu should accelerate faster than 2011 BMW 120.
Because 2011 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 2011 BMW 120. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 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 Chevrolet Malibu (217 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 7 more torque (in Nm) than 2011 BMW 120. (210 Nm @ 4250 RPM). This means 2008 Chevrolet Malibu will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2011 BMW 120. 2008 Chevrolet Malibu has automatic transmission and 2011 BMW 120 has manual transmission. 2011 BMW 120 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 Chevrolet Malibu will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Chevrolet Malibu | 2011 BMW 120 | |
| Make | Chevrolet | BMW |
| Model | Malibu | 120 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2011 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2401 cc | 1993 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 170 HP | 168 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6400 RPM | 6700 RPM |
| Torque | 217 Nm | 210 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 4250 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4880 mm | 4370 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1420 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1760 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2860 mm | 2670 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 9.4 L/100km | 6.6 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 61 L | 53 L |
