1978 BMW 520 vs. 1999 Chevrolet Cavalier
To start off, 1999 Chevrolet Cavalier is newer by 21 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 BMW 520. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 BMW 520 would be higher. At 2,190 cc (4 cylinders), 1999 Chevrolet Cavalier is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1978 BMW 520 (135 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 15 more horse power than 1999 Chevrolet Cavalier. (120 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1978 BMW 520 should accelerate faster than 1999 Chevrolet Cavalier. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1978 BMW 520 weights approximately 479 kg more than 1999 Chevrolet Cavalier. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1978 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 1978 BMW 520. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1999 Chevrolet Cavalier, 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, 1978 BMW 520 (280 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 104 more torque (in Nm) than 1999 Chevrolet Cavalier. (176 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 1978 BMW 520 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1999 Chevrolet Cavalier.
Compare all specifications:
1978 BMW 520 | 1999 Chevrolet Cavalier | |
Make | BMW | Chevrolet |
Model | 520 | Cavalier |
Year Released | 1978 | 1999 |
Body Type | Station Wagon | Coupe |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1951 cc | 2190 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 135 HP | 120 HP |
Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5200 RPM |
Torque | 280 Nm | 176 Nm |
Torque RPM | 1750 RPM | 3600 RPM |
Engine Compression Ratio | 19.0:1 | 9.0:1 |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1670 kg | 1191 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4810 mm | 4590 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1720 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1360 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2570 mm |
Fuel Consumption Overall | 6.1 L/100km | 14 L/100km |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 57 L |