2009 BMW 120 vs. 2012 Chevrolet Malibu
To start off, 2012 Chevrolet Malibu is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2009 BMW 120. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2009 BMW 120 would be higher. At 2,400 cc (4 cylinders), 2012 Chevrolet Malibu is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Chevrolet Malibu (169 HP @ 6400 RPM) has 15 more horse power than 2009 BMW 120. (154 HP @ 6700 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Chevrolet Malibu should accelerate faster than 2009 BMW 120.
Because 2009 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 2009 BMW 120. 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 (217 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 17 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 BMW 120. (200 Nm @ 4250 RPM). This means 2012 Chevrolet Malibu will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 BMW 120.
Compare all specifications:
2009 BMW 120 | 2012 Chevrolet Malibu | |
Make | BMW | Chevrolet |
Model | 120 | Malibu |
Year Released | 2009 | 2012 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1995 cc | 2400 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 154 HP | 169 HP |
Engine RPM | 6700 RPM | 6400 RPM |
Torque | 200 Nm | 217 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4250 RPM | 4500 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Automatic | 6-speed shiftable automatic |
Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Length | 4250 mm | 4872 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1430 mm | 1786 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1750 mm | 1450 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2670 mm | 2852 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 53 L | 61 L |