1980 BMW M5 vs. 2012 Chevrolet Cruze

To start off, 2012 Chevrolet Cruze is newer by 32 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1980 BMW M5. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1980 BMW M5 would be higher. At 3,453 cc (6 cylinders), 1980 BMW M5 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1980 BMW M5 (218 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 96 more horse power than 2012 Chevrolet Cruze. (122 HP @ 6200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1980 BMW M5 should accelerate faster than 2012 Chevrolet Cruze. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1980 BMW M5 weights approximately 86 kg more than 2012 Chevrolet Cruze. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 1980 BMW M5 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 1980 BMW M5. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 Chevrolet Cruze, 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, 1980 BMW M5 (304 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 150 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Chevrolet Cruze. (154 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 1980 BMW M5 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Chevrolet Cruze. 2012 Chevrolet Cruze has automatic transmission and 1980 BMW M5 has manual transmission. 1980 BMW M5 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2012 Chevrolet Cruze will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

1980 BMW M5 2012 Chevrolet Cruze
Make BMW Chevrolet
Model M5 Cruze
Year Released 1980 2012
Body Type Sedan Hatchback
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 3453 cc 1598 cc
Engine Cylinders 6 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Horse Power 218 HP 122 HP
Engine RPM 5200 RPM 6200 RPM
Torque 304 Nm 154 Nm
Torque RPM 4000 RPM 4200 RPM
Engine Bore Size 93.4 mm 79 mm
Engine Stroke Size 84 mm 81.5 mm
Engine Compression Ratio 9.3:1 11:00
Top Speed 228 km/hour 190 km/hour
Acceleration 0-100mph 7.2 seconds 12 seconds
Drive Type Rear Front
Transmission Type Manual Automatic
Number of Seats 5 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 4 doors 5 doors
Vehicle Weight 1391 kg 1305 kg
Vehicle Length 4620 mm 4510 mm
Vehicle Width 1700 mm 1797 mm
Vehicle Height 1430 mm 1476 mm
Wheelbase Size 2640 mm 2685 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity 70 L 59 L