2009 BMW 523 vs. 2006 Chevrolet Malibu
To start off, 2009 BMW 523 is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2006 Chevrolet Malibu. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2006 Chevrolet Malibu would be higher. At 3,491 cc (6 cylinders), 2006 Chevrolet Malibu is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Chevrolet Malibu (201 HP @ 5400 RPM) has 26 more horse power than 2009 BMW 523. (175 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Chevrolet Malibu should accelerate faster than 2009 BMW 523. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Chevrolet Malibu weights approximately 260 kg more than 2009 BMW 523. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2009 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 2009 BMW 523. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2006 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 Chevrolet Malibu (298 Nm @ 3200 RPM) has 68 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 BMW 523. (230 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2006 Chevrolet Malibu will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 BMW 523. 2006 Chevrolet Malibu has automatic transmission and 2009 BMW 523 has manual transmission. 2009 BMW 523 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2006 Chevrolet Malibu will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 BMW 523 | 2006 Chevrolet Malibu | |
| Make | BMW | Chevrolet |
| Model | 523 | Malibu |
| Year Released | 2009 | 2006 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2497 cc | 3491 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 175 HP | 201 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 230 Nm | 298 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82 mm | 94 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 78.8 mm | 84.1 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1490 kg | 1750 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4850 mm | 4780 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1470 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1850 mm | 1480 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2890 mm | 2860 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 8.5 L/100km | 9.6 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 61 L |
