2003 BMW 530 vs. 2011 Chevrolet Cruze
To start off, 2011 Chevrolet Cruze is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 BMW 530. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 BMW 530 would be higher. At 2,979 cc (6 cylinders), 2003 BMW 530 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 BMW 530 (227 HP @ 5900 RPM) has 66 more horse power than 2011 Chevrolet Cruze. (161 HP @ 3800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 BMW 530 should accelerate faster than 2011 Chevrolet Cruze.
Because 2003 BMW 530 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 530. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2011 Chevrolet Cruze, 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, 2011 Chevrolet Cruze (360 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 60 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 BMW 530. (300 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2011 Chevrolet Cruze will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 BMW 530. 2003 BMW 530 has automatic transmission and 2011 Chevrolet Cruze has manual transmission. 2011 Chevrolet Cruze will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2003 BMW 530 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 BMW 530 | 2011 Chevrolet Cruze | |
| Make | BMW | Chevrolet |
| Model | 530 | Cruze |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2979 cc | 1998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 227 HP | 161 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5900 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Torque | 300 Nm | 360 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 1750 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.2:1 | 16.5:1 |
| Top Speed | 240 km/hour | 204 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 7.1 seconds | 8.5 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | 6-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4850 mm | 4597 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1850 mm | 1788 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1476 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2790 mm | 2685 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 59 L |
