2009 BMW 125 vs. 2004 Chevrolet Malibu
To start off, 2009 BMW 125 is newer by 5 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, 2009 BMW 125 (215 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 15 more horse power than 2004 Chevrolet Malibu. (200 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 BMW 125 should accelerate faster than 2004 Chevrolet Malibu. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Chevrolet Malibu weights approximately 169 kg more than 2009 BMW 125.
Because 2009 BMW 125 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 125. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 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, 2004 Chevrolet Malibu (298 Nm) has 48 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 BMW 125. (250 Nm). This means 2004 Chevrolet Malibu will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 BMW 125.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 BMW 125 | 2004 Chevrolet Malibu | |
| Make | BMW | Chevrolet |
| Model | 125 | Malibu |
| Year Released | 2009 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2497 cc | 3491 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 215 HP | 200 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 250 Nm | 298 Nm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.2:1 | 9.8:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1326 kg | 1495 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4370 mm | 4790 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1430 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1760 mm | 1480 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2670 mm | 2650 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 5.1 L/100km | 9.1 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 53 L | 63 L |
