2008 BMW 523 vs. 2012 Chevrolet Impala
To start off, 2012 Chevrolet Impala is newer by 4 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 3,600 cc (6 cylinders), 2012 Chevrolet Impala is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Chevrolet Impala (300 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 125 more horse power than 2008 BMW 523. (175 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Chevrolet Impala should accelerate faster than 2008 BMW 523. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Chevrolet Impala weights approximately 123 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, 2012 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, 2012 Chevrolet Impala (355 Nm @ 5300 RPM) has 125 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 BMW 523. (230 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2012 Chevrolet Impala will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 BMW 523. 2012 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. 2012 Chevrolet Impala will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 BMW 523 | 2012 Chevrolet Impala | |
| Make | BMW | Chevrolet |
| Model | 523 | Impala |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2497 cc | 3600 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 175 HP | 300 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 230 Nm | 355 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 5300 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Flex Fuel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1490 kg | 1613 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4850 mm | 5090 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1850 mm | 1852 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1491 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2890 mm | 2807 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 64 L |
