2006 BMW 525 vs. 2011 Chevrolet Malibu
To start off, 2011 Chevrolet Malibu is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2006 BMW 525. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2006 BMW 525 would be higher. At 2,497 cc (6 cylinders), 2006 BMW 525 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 BMW 525 (215 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 46 more horse power than 2011 Chevrolet Malibu. (169 HP @ 6400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 BMW 525 should accelerate faster than 2011 Chevrolet Malibu.
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, 2011 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, 2006 BMW 525 (251 Nm @ 2750 RPM) has 34 more torque (in Nm) than 2011 Chevrolet Malibu. (217 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2006 BMW 525 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2011 Chevrolet Malibu. 2011 Chevrolet Malibu has automatic transmission and 2006 BMW 525 has manual transmission. 2006 BMW 525 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2011 Chevrolet Malibu will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 BMW 525 | 2011 Chevrolet Malibu | |
| Make | BMW | Chevrolet |
| Model | 525 | Malibu |
| Year Released | 2006 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2497 cc | 2400 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 215 HP | 169 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 6400 RPM |
| Torque | 251 Nm | 217 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2750 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4850 mm | 4872 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1850 mm | 1786 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1500 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2852 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 61 L |
