2009 BMW X3 vs. 1996 Chevrolet Malibu
To start off, 2009 BMW X3 is newer by 13 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Chevrolet Malibu. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Chevrolet Malibu would be higher. At 3,135 cc (6 cylinders), 1996 Chevrolet Malibu is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 BMW X3 (189 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 39 more horse power than 1996 Chevrolet Malibu. (150 HP @ 4800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 BMW X3 should accelerate faster than 1996 Chevrolet Malibu. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 BMW X3 weights approximately 350 kg more than 1996 Chevrolet Malibu. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2009 BMW X3 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1996 Chevrolet Malibu. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 BMW X3 will offer significantly more control. 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, 1996 Chevrolet Malibu (249 Nm @ 3200 RPM) has 4 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 BMW X3. (245 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1996 Chevrolet Malibu will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 BMW X3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 BMW X3 | 1996 Chevrolet Malibu | |
| Make | BMW | Chevrolet |
| Model | X3 | Malibu |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1996 |
| Body Type | SUV | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2494 cc | 3135 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 189 HP | 150 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Torque | 245 Nm | 249 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1815 kg | 1465 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4570 mm | 4850 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1680 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2800 mm | 2950 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 67 L | 56 L |
