1988 BMW 525 vs. 2005 Chevrolet Malibu
To start off, 2005 Chevrolet Malibu is newer by 17 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 3,491 cc (6 cylinders), 2005 Chevrolet Malibu is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Chevrolet Malibu (200 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 35 more horse power than 1988 BMW 525. (165 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 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 6 kg more than 2005 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, 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 59 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 BMW 525. (239 Nm). This means 2005 Chevrolet Malibu will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 BMW 525. 2005 Chevrolet Malibu has automatic transmission and 1988 BMW 525 has manual transmission. 1988 BMW 525 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2005 Chevrolet Malibu will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1988 BMW 525 | 2005 Chevrolet Malibu | |
| Make | BMW | Chevrolet |
| Model | 525 | Malibu |
| Year Released | 1988 | 2005 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2494 cc | 3491 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 165 HP | 200 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 239 Nm | 298 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 94 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 75 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.8:1 | 9.8:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1575 kg | 1569 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4730 mm | 4780 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1480 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2630 mm | 2860 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 61 L |
