2006 BMW 530 vs. 2012 Chevrolet Cruze

To start off, 2012 Chevrolet Cruze is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2006 BMW 530. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2006 BMW 530 would be higher. At 2,979 cc, 2006 BMW 530 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Chevrolet Cruze (138 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 115 more horse power than 2006 BMW 530. (23 HP @ 5900 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Chevrolet Cruze should accelerate faster than 2006 BMW 530.

Because 2006 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 2006 BMW 530. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 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, 2006 BMW 530 (300 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 133 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Chevrolet Cruze. (167 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 2006 BMW 530 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Chevrolet Cruze. 2006 BMW 530 has automatic transmission and 2012 Chevrolet Cruze has manual transmission. 2012 Chevrolet Cruze will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2006 BMW 530 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

2006 BMW 530 2012 Chevrolet Cruze
Make BMW Chevrolet
Model 530 Cruze
Year Released 2006 2012
Body Type Sedan Sedan
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 2979 cc 1800 cc
Valves per Cylinder 4 valves 4 valves
Horse Power 23 HP 138 HP
Engine RPM 5900 RPM 6300 RPM
Torque 300 Nm 167 Nm
Torque RPM 3500 RPM 3800 RPM
Fuel Type Gasoline Gasoline
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 4570 mm 4597 mm
Vehicle Height 1680 mm 1476 mm
Wheelbase Size 2740 mm 2685 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity 70 L 59 L