2006 BMW 525 vs. 2005 Chevrolet Malibu
To start off, 2006 BMW 525 is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2005 Chevrolet Malibu. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2005 Chevrolet Malibu would be higher. At 3,491 cc (6 cylinders), 2005 Chevrolet Malibu is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 BMW 525 (215 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 14 more horse power than 2005 Chevrolet Malibu. (201 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 BMW 525 should accelerate faster than 2005 Chevrolet Malibu. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 BMW 525 weights approximately 221 kg more than 2005 Chevrolet Malibu. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2006 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 2006 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 47 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 BMW 525. (251 Nm). This means 2005 Chevrolet Malibu will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 BMW 525.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 BMW 525 | 2005 Chevrolet Malibu | |
| Make | BMW | Chevrolet |
| Model | 525 | Malibu |
| Year Released | 2006 | 2005 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2497 cc | 3491 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 215 HP | 201 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 251 Nm | 298 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 78.8 mm | 94 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 82 mm | 84 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1680 kg | 1459 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4850 mm | 4790 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1850 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1500 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2710 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 8.9 L/100km | 9.1 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 63 L |
