1990 BMW 520 vs. 2012 Chevrolet Malibu
To start off, 2012 Chevrolet Malibu is newer by 22 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1990 BMW 520. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1990 BMW 520 would be higher. At 3,600 cc (6 cylinders), 2012 Chevrolet Malibu is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Chevrolet Malibu (252 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 107 more horse power than 1990 BMW 520. (145 HP @ 5900 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Chevrolet Malibu should accelerate faster than 1990 BMW 520.
Because 1990 BMW 520 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 1990 BMW 520. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 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, 2012 Chevrolet Malibu (340 Nm @ 3200 RPM) has 154 more torque (in Nm) than 1990 BMW 520. (186 Nm @ 4700 RPM). This means 2012 Chevrolet Malibu will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1990 BMW 520. 2012 Chevrolet Malibu has automatic transmission and 1990 BMW 520 has manual transmission. 1990 BMW 520 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2012 Chevrolet Malibu will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1990 BMW 520 | 2012 Chevrolet Malibu | |
| Make | BMW | Chevrolet |
| Model | 520 | Malibu |
| Year Released | 1990 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1991 cc | 3600 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 145 HP | 252 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5900 RPM | 6300 RPM |
| Torque | 186 Nm | 340 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4700 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed shiftable automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4730 mm | 4872 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1786 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2852 mm |
