1988 BMW 525 vs. 2003 Chevrolet Malibu
To start off, 2003 Chevrolet Malibu is newer by 15 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 BMW 525. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 BMW 525 would be higher. At 3,501 cc (6 cylinders), 2003 Chevrolet Malibu is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Chevrolet Malibu (200 HP @ 5400 RPM) has 35 more horse power than 1988 BMW 525. (165 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Chevrolet Malibu should accelerate faster than 1988 BMW 525. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1988 BMW 525 weights approximately 101 kg more than 2003 Chevrolet Malibu.
Because 1988 BMW 525 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 1988 BMW 525. 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 (299 Nm @ 3200 RPM) has 60 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 BMW 525. (239 Nm @ 4300 RPM). This means 2003 Chevrolet Malibu will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 BMW 525.
Compare all specifications:
| 1988 BMW 525 | 2003 Chevrolet Malibu | |
| Make | BMW | Chevrolet |
| Model | 525 | Malibu |
| Year Released | 1988 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2441 cc | 3501 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 165 HP | 200 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 239 Nm | 299 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4300 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 94 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 75 mm | 84.1 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1605 kg | 1504 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4730 mm | 4790 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2810 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 62 L |
