2012 Chevrolet Malibu vs. 2006 BMW 523
To start off, 2012 Chevrolet Malibu is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2006 BMW 523. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2006 BMW 523 would be higher. At 3,600 cc (6 cylinders), 2012 Chevrolet Malibu is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Chevrolet Malibu (252 HP) has 77 more horse power than 2006 BMW 523. (175 HP). In normal driving conditions, 2012 Chevrolet Malibu should accelerate faster than 2006 BMW 523.
Because 2006 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 2006 BMW 523. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 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, 2012 Chevrolet Malibu (340 Nm @ 3200 RPM) has 110 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 BMW 523. (230 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2012 Chevrolet Malibu will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 BMW 523.
Compare all specifications:
| 2012 Chevrolet Malibu | 2006 BMW 523 | |
| Make | Chevrolet | BMW |
| Model | Malibu | 523 |
| Year Released | 2012 | 2006 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3600 cc | 2497 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 252 HP | 175 HP |
| Torque | 340 Nm | 230 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | 6-speed shiftable automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4872 mm | 4850 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1786 mm | 1850 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1500 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2852 mm | 2840 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 61 L | 70 L |
