2008 BMW 523 vs. 2011 Chevrolet Impala
To start off, 2011 Chevrolet Impala is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2008 BMW 523. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2008 BMW 523 would be higher. At 3,500 cc (6 cylinders), 2011 Chevrolet Impala is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Chevrolet Impala (211 HP) has 36 more horse power than 2008 BMW 523. (175 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Chevrolet Impala should accelerate faster than 2008 BMW 523. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Chevrolet Impala weights approximately 333 kg more than 2008 BMW 523. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2008 BMW 523 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 2008 BMW 523. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2011 Chevrolet Impala, 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 Impala (293 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 63 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 BMW 523. (230 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2011 Chevrolet Impala will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 BMW 523. 2011 Chevrolet Impala has automatic transmission and 2008 BMW 523 has manual transmission. 2008 BMW 523 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2011 Chevrolet Impala will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 BMW 523 | 2011 Chevrolet Impala | |
| Make | BMW | Chevrolet |
| Model | 523 | Impala |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2497 cc | 3500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 175 HP | 211 HP |
| Torque | 230 Nm | 293 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Flex Fuel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1280 kg | 1613 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4850 mm | 5090 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1850 mm | 1852 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1500 mm | 1491 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2807 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 64 L |
