1981 BMW 520 vs. 2002 Chevrolet Cavalier
To start off, 2002 Chevrolet Cavalier is newer by 21 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 BMW 520. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 BMW 520 would be higher. At 2,190 cc (4 cylinders), 2002 Chevrolet Cavalier is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1981 BMW 520 (123 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 3 more horse power than 2002 Chevrolet Cavalier. (120 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1981 BMW 520 should accelerate faster than 2002 Chevrolet Cavalier. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1981 BMW 520 weights approximately 32 kg more than 2002 Chevrolet Cavalier. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1981 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 1981 BMW 520. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2002 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, 2002 Chevrolet Cavalier (176 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 6 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 BMW 520. (170 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2002 Chevrolet Cavalier will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 BMW 520.
Compare all specifications:
1981 BMW 520 | 2002 Chevrolet Cavalier | |
Make | BMW | Chevrolet |
Model | 520 | Cavalier |
Year Released | 1981 | 2002 |
Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1991 cc | 2190 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 123 HP | 120 HP |
Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 5200 RPM |
Torque | 170 Nm | 176 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3600 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 89 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 66 mm | 88 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 9.8:1 | 9.0:1 |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1220 kg | 1188 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4630 mm | 4590 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1750 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1350 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2630 mm | 2810 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 56 L |