1972 BMW 520 vs. 2003 Chevrolet Malibu
To start off, 2003 Chevrolet Malibu is newer by 31 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1972 BMW 520. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1972 BMW 520 would be higher. At 3,135 cc (6 cylinders), 2003 Chevrolet Malibu is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Chevrolet Malibu (168 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 18 more horse power than 1972 BMW 520. (150 HP @ 5900 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Chevrolet Malibu should accelerate faster than 1972 BMW 520. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1972 BMW 520 weights approximately 65 kg more than 2003 Chevrolet Malibu.
Because 1972 BMW 520 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 1972 BMW 520. 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, 2003 Chevrolet Malibu (257 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 67 more torque (in Nm) than 1972 BMW 520. (190 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 2003 Chevrolet Malibu will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1972 BMW 520. 2003 Chevrolet Malibu has automatic transmission and 1972 BMW 520 has manual transmission. 1972 BMW 520 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:
| 1972 BMW 520 | 2003 Chevrolet Malibu | |
| Make | BMW | Chevrolet |
| Model | 520 | Malibu |
| Year Released | 1972 | 2003 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1991 cc | 3135 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 150 HP | 168 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5900 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 190 Nm | 257 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4200 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 89.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 66 mm | 84 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1445 kg | 1380 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4630 mm | 4840 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2720 mm |
