1988 BMW M3 vs. 1995 Chevrolet Cavalier
To start off, 1995 Chevrolet Cavalier is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 BMW M3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 BMW M3 would be higher. At 2,302 cc (4 cylinders), 1988 BMW M3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1988 BMW M3 (192 HP @ 6750 RPM) has 72 more horse power than 1995 Chevrolet Cavalier. (120 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1988 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 1995 Chevrolet Cavalier. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1995 Chevrolet Cavalier weights approximately 259 kg more than 1988 BMW M3.
Because 1988 BMW M3 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 1988 BMW M3. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1995 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, 1988 BMW M3 (230 Nm @ 4750 RPM) has 54 more torque (in Nm) than 1995 Chevrolet Cavalier. (176 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1988 BMW M3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1995 Chevrolet Cavalier. 1995 Chevrolet Cavalier has automatic transmission and 1988 BMW M3 has manual transmission. 1988 BMW M3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1995 Chevrolet Cavalier will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1988 BMW M3 | 1995 Chevrolet Cavalier | |
| Make | BMW | Chevrolet |
| Model | M3 | Cavalier |
| Year Released | 1988 | 1995 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2302 cc | 2190 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 192 HP | 120 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6750 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 230 Nm | 176 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4750 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 93.4 mm | 89.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 84 mm | 88 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1296 kg | 1555 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4350 mm | 4590 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 2650 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 58 L | 57 L |
