2009 BMW 135 vs. 2003 Chevrolet Malibu
To start off, 2009 BMW 135 is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Chevrolet Malibu. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Chevrolet Malibu would be higher. At 3,500 cc (6 cylinders), 2003 Chevrolet Malibu is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 BMW 135 (302 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 102 more horse power than 2003 Chevrolet Malibu. (200 HP @ 5400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 BMW 135 should accelerate faster than 2003 Chevrolet Malibu. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Chevrolet Malibu weights approximately 44 kg more than 2009 BMW 135.
Because 2009 BMW 135 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 135. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 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, 2009 BMW 135 (400 Nm @ 1300 RPM) has 102 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Chevrolet Malibu. (298 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 2009 BMW 135 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Chevrolet Malibu. 2003 Chevrolet Malibu has automatic transmission and 2009 BMW 135 has manual transmission. 2009 BMW 135 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2003 Chevrolet Malibu will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 BMW 135 | 2003 Chevrolet Malibu | |
| Make | BMW | Chevrolet |
| Model | 135 | Malibu |
| Year Released | 2009 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2979 cc | 3500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 302 HP | 200 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 400 Nm | 298 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1300 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 94 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 89.6 mm | 84.1 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.2:1 | 9.8:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1525 kg | 1569 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4370 mm | 4780 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1420 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1760 mm | 1480 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2670 mm | 2850 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 53 L | 62 L |
