1980 BMW 725 vs. 2006 Chevrolet Malibu
To start off, 2006 Chevrolet Malibu is newer by 26 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1980 BMW 725. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1980 BMW 725 would be higher. At 3,491 cc (6 cylinders), 2006 Chevrolet Malibu is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Chevrolet Malibu (201 HP @ 5400 RPM) has 53 more horse power than 1980 BMW 725. (148 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Chevrolet Malibu should accelerate faster than 1980 BMW 725.
Because 1980 BMW 725 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 1980 BMW 725. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2006 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, 2006 Chevrolet Malibu (298 Nm @ 3200 RPM) has 83 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 BMW 725. (215 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2006 Chevrolet Malibu will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 BMW 725.
Compare all specifications:
| 1980 BMW 725 | 2006 Chevrolet Malibu | |
| Make | BMW | Chevrolet |
| Model | 725 | Malibu |
| Year Released | 1980 | 2006 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2495 cc | 3491 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 201 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 215 Nm | 298 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86 mm | 94 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 71.6 mm | 84.1 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.6:1 | 9.8:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4870 mm | 4780 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1480 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2810 mm | 2860 mm |
