1981 Chevrolet Malibu vs. 2011 BMW 520
To start off, 2011 BMW 520 is newer by 30 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Chevrolet Malibu. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Chevrolet Malibu would be higher. At 3,790 cc (6 cylinders), 1981 Chevrolet Malibu is equipped with a bigger engine. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 BMW 520 weights approximately 219 kg more than 1981 Chevrolet Malibu.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. 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.
Compare all specifications:
| 1981 Chevrolet Malibu | 2011 BMW 520 | |
| Make | Chevrolet | BMW |
| Model | Malibu | 520 |
| Year Released | 1981 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3790 cc | 1995 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 0 HP | 182 HP |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | 8-speed shiftable automatic |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1476 kg | 1695 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4920 mm | 4899 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1464 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2760 mm | 2968 mm |
