2003 BMW 520 vs. 1996 Chevrolet Malibu
To start off, 2003 BMW 520 is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Chevrolet Malibu. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Chevrolet Malibu would be higher. At 2,392 cc (4 cylinders), 1996 Chevrolet Malibu is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 BMW 520 (167 HP @ 6100 RPM) has 17 more horse power than 1996 Chevrolet Malibu. (150 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 BMW 520 should accelerate faster than 1996 Chevrolet Malibu. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 BMW 520 weights approximately 285 kg more than 1996 Chevrolet Malibu. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2003 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 2003 BMW 520. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1996 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, both vehicles can yield 210 Nm of torque. So under normal driving conditions, the ability to climb up hills and pull heavy equipment should be relatively similar for both vehicles. 1996 Chevrolet Malibu has automatic transmission and 2003 BMW 520 has manual transmission. 2003 BMW 520 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1996 Chevrolet Malibu will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 BMW 520 | 1996 Chevrolet Malibu | |
| Make | BMW | Chevrolet |
| Model | 520 | Malibu |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1996 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2170 cc | 2392 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 167 HP | 150 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6100 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 210 Nm | 210 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 89.9 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 72 mm | 94 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.7:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1670 kg | 1385 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4810 mm | 4850 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2890 mm | 2760 mm |
