1990 BMW 525 vs. 2004 Chevrolet Malibu
To start off, 2004 Chevrolet Malibu is newer by 14 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1990 BMW 525. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1990 BMW 525 would be higher. At 3,491 cc (6 cylinders), 2004 Chevrolet Malibu is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Chevrolet Malibu (200 HP) has 15 more horse power than 1990 BMW 525. (185 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Chevrolet Malibu should accelerate faster than 1990 BMW 525. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1990 BMW 525 weights approximately 71 kg more than 2004 Chevrolet Malibu.
Because 1990 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 1990 BMW 525. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 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, 2004 Chevrolet Malibu (298 Nm) has 58 more torque (in Nm) than 1990 BMW 525. (240 Nm). This means 2004 Chevrolet Malibu will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1990 BMW 525. 2004 Chevrolet Malibu has automatic transmission and 1990 BMW 525 has manual transmission. 1990 BMW 525 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2004 Chevrolet Malibu will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1990 BMW 525 | 2004 Chevrolet Malibu | |
| Make | BMW | Chevrolet |
| Model | 525 | Malibu |
| Year Released | 1990 | 2004 |
| 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 | 185 HP | 200 HP |
| Torque | 240 Nm | 298 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 94 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 75 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 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 | 1504 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4730 mm | 4780 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1480 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2950 mm |
