2009 Chevrolet Malibu vs. 2001 BMW Z3
To start off, 2009 Chevrolet Malibu is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2001 BMW Z3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2001 BMW Z3 would be higher. At 2,489 cc (6 cylinders), 2001 BMW Z3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 BMW Z3 (190 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 28 more horse power than 2009 Chevrolet Malibu. (162 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2001 BMW Z3 should accelerate faster than 2009 Chevrolet Malibu. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Chevrolet Malibu weights approximately 1070 kg more than 2001 BMW Z3.
Because 2001 BMW Z3 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 2001 BMW Z3. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 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, 2001 BMW Z3 (237 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 78 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Chevrolet Malibu. (159 Nm @ 4400 RPM). This means 2001 BMW Z3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Chevrolet Malibu. 2009 Chevrolet Malibu has automatic transmission and 2001 BMW Z3 has manual transmission. 2001 BMW Z3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2009 Chevrolet Malibu will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Chevrolet Malibu | 2001 BMW Z3 | |
| Make | Chevrolet | BMW |
| Model | Malibu | Z3 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 2001 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2399 cc | 2489 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 162 HP | 190 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 159 Nm | 237 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4400 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.6:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline / Electric Hybrid | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 2385 kg | 1315 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4880 mm | 4060 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1300 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2860 mm | 2450 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 61 L | 51 L |
