1981 BMW 725 vs. 2005 Chevrolet Malibu
To start off, 2005 Chevrolet Malibu is newer by 24 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 BMW 725. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 BMW 725 would be higher. At 3,490 cc (6 cylinders), 2005 Chevrolet Malibu is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Chevrolet Malibu (200 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 52 more horse power than 1981 BMW 725. (148 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Chevrolet Malibu should accelerate faster than 1981 BMW 725.
Because 1981 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 1981 BMW 725. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 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, 2005 Chevrolet Malibu (298 Nm) has 83 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 BMW 725. (215 Nm). This means 2005 Chevrolet Malibu will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 BMW 725.
Compare all specifications:
| 1981 BMW 725 | 2005 Chevrolet Malibu | |
| Make | BMW | Chevrolet |
| Model | 725 | Malibu |
| Year Released | 1981 | 2005 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2493 cc | 3490 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 200 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 215 Nm | 298 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 86 mm | 94 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 71.6 mm | 84 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 |
