1978 BMW 520 vs. 2012 Chevrolet Malibu
To start off, 2012 Chevrolet Malibu is newer by 34 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 BMW 520. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 BMW 520 would be higher. At 2,400 cc (6 cylinders), 2012 Chevrolet Malibu is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Chevrolet Malibu (252 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 117 more horse power than 1978 BMW 520. (135 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Chevrolet Malibu should accelerate faster than 1978 BMW 520.
Because 1978 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 1978 BMW 520. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 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, 2012 Chevrolet Malibu (340 Nm @ 3200 RPM) has 60 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 BMW 520. (280 Nm @ 1750 RPM). This means 2012 Chevrolet Malibu will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 BMW 520. 2012 Chevrolet Malibu has automatic transmission and 1978 BMW 520 has manual transmission. 1978 BMW 520 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2012 Chevrolet Malibu will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1978 BMW 520 | 2012 Chevrolet Malibu | |
Make | BMW | Chevrolet |
Model | 520 | Malibu |
Year Released | 1978 | 2012 |
Body Type | Station Wagon | Sedan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1951 cc | 2400 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | V |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 135 HP | 252 HP |
Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 6300 RPM |
Torque | 280 Nm | 340 Nm |
Torque RPM | 1750 RPM | 3200 RPM |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed shiftable automatic |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Length | 4810 mm | 4872 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1786 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1450 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2852 mm |
Fuel Consumption | 5 L/100km | 9.1 L/100km |
Fuel Consumption City | 8.1 L/100km | 13.8 L/100km |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 61 L |