2008 Chevrolet Malibu vs. 2012 BMW 520
To start off, 2012 BMW 520 is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2008 Chevrolet Malibu. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2008 Chevrolet Malibu would be higher. At 3,498 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 Chevrolet Malibu is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Chevrolet Malibu (219 HP @ 5900 RPM) has 37 more horse power than 2012 BMW 520. (182 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Chevrolet Malibu should accelerate faster than 2012 BMW 520.
Because 2012 BMW 520 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 2012 BMW 520. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 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, 2008 Chevrolet Malibu (297 Nm @ 3200 RPM) has 27 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 BMW 520. (270 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2008 Chevrolet Malibu will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 BMW 520.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Chevrolet Malibu | 2012 BMW 520 | |
| Make | Chevrolet | BMW |
| Model | Malibu | 520 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3498 cc | 1997 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 219 HP | 182 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5900 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 297 Nm | 270 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | 8-speed shiftable automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4790 mm | 4907 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1462 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2968 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 61 L | 70 L |
