2009 BMW M3 vs. 1998 Chevrolet Malibu
To start off, 2009 BMW M3 is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Chevrolet Malibu. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Chevrolet Malibu would be higher. At 3,999 cc (8 cylinders), 2009 BMW M3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 BMW M3 (414 HP @ 8300 RPM) has 265 more horse power than 1998 Chevrolet Malibu. (149 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 1998 Chevrolet Malibu. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 BMW M3 weights approximately 139 kg more than 1998 Chevrolet Malibu. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2009 BMW M3 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 M3. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1998 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 M3 (400 Nm @ 3900 RPM) has 190 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Chevrolet Malibu. (210 Nm @ 4400 RPM). This means 2009 BMW M3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Chevrolet Malibu. 1998 Chevrolet Malibu has automatic transmission and 2009 BMW M3 has manual transmission. 2009 BMW M3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1998 Chevrolet Malibu will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
2009 BMW M3 | 1998 Chevrolet Malibu | |
Make | BMW | Chevrolet |
Model | M3 | Malibu |
Year Released | 2009 | 1998 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 3999 cc | 2392 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 414 HP | 149 HP |
Engine RPM | 8300 RPM | 5600 RPM |
Torque | 400 Nm | 210 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3900 RPM | 4400 RPM |
Engine Compression Ratio | 12.0:1 | 9.5:1 |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1525 kg | 1386 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4620 mm | 4840 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1420 mm | 1770 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1810 mm | 1440 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2720 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 76 L |