2009 BMW 525 vs. 2003 Chevrolet Malibu
To start off, 2009 BMW 525 is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Chevrolet Malibu. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Chevrolet Malibu would be higher. At 3,500 cc (6 cylinders), 2003 Chevrolet Malibu is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 BMW 525 (215 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 15 more horse power than 2003 Chevrolet Malibu. (200 HP @ 5400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 BMW 525 should accelerate faster than 2003 Chevrolet Malibu. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Chevrolet Malibu weights approximately 4 kg more than 2009 BMW 525.
Because 2009 BMW 525 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2003 Chevrolet Malibu. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 BMW 525 will offer significantly more control. 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, 2003 Chevrolet Malibu (298 Nm @ 3200 RPM) has 48 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 BMW 525. (250 Nm @ 2750 RPM). This means 2003 Chevrolet Malibu will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 BMW 525. 2003 Chevrolet Malibu has automatic transmission and 2009 BMW 525 has manual transmission. 2009 BMW 525 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2003 Chevrolet Malibu will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 BMW 525 | 2003 Chevrolet Malibu | |
| Make | BMW | Chevrolet |
| Model | 525 | Malibu |
| Year Released | 2009 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Sedan | 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 | 215 HP | 200 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 250 Nm | 298 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2750 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 78.8 mm | 94 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 82 mm | 84.1 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 9.8:1 |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1565 kg | 1569 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4850 mm | 4780 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1850 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1480 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2890 mm | 2850 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 62 L |
