1990 BMW 316 vs. 1996 Chevrolet Cavalier
To start off, 1996 Chevrolet Cavalier is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1990 BMW 316. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1990 BMW 316 would be higher. At 2,189 cc (4 cylinders), 1996 Chevrolet Cavalier is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Chevrolet Cavalier (120 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 20 more horse power than 1990 BMW 316. (100 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1996 Chevrolet Cavalier should accelerate faster than 1990 BMW 316. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Chevrolet Cavalier weights approximately 111 kg more than 1990 BMW 316. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1990 BMW 316 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 1990 BMW 316. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1996 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, 1996 Chevrolet Cavalier (183 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 42 more torque (in Nm) than 1990 BMW 316. (141 Nm @ 4250 RPM). This means 1996 Chevrolet Cavalier will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1990 BMW 316. 1996 Chevrolet Cavalier has automatic transmission and 1990 BMW 316 has manual transmission. 1990 BMW 316 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1996 Chevrolet Cavalier will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1990 BMW 316 | 1996 Chevrolet Cavalier | |
| Make | BMW | Chevrolet |
| Model | 316 | Cavalier |
| Year Released | 1990 | 1996 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1596 cc | 2189 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 100 HP | 120 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 141 Nm | 183 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4250 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1080 kg | 1191 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4330 mm | 4600 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1650 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2570 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 57 L |
