1996 BMW 332 vs. 1999 Chevrolet Cavalier

To start off, 1999 Chevrolet Cavalier is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 BMW 332. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 BMW 332 would be higher. At 3,201 cc (6 cylinders), 1996 BMW 332 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 BMW 332 (323 HP @ 7400 RPM) has 203 more horse power than 1999 Chevrolet Cavalier. (120 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 BMW 332 should accelerate faster than 1999 Chevrolet Cavalier. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 BMW 332 weights approximately 345 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 1996 BMW 332 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 1996 BMW 332. 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, 1996 BMW 332 (350 Nm @ 3250 RPM) has 167 more torque (in Nm) than 1999 Chevrolet Cavalier. (183 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 1996 BMW 332 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1999 Chevrolet Cavalier. 1999 Chevrolet Cavalier has automatic transmission and 1996 BMW 332 has manual transmission. 1996 BMW 332 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1999 Chevrolet Cavalier will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

1996 BMW 332 1999 Chevrolet Cavalier
Make BMW Chevrolet
Model 332 Cavalier
Year Released 1996 1999
Body Type Convertible Convertible
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 3201 cc 2190 cc
Engine Cylinders 6 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Valves per Cylinder 4 valves 4 valves
Horse Power 323 HP 120 HP
Engine RPM 7400 RPM 5200 RPM
Torque 350 Nm 183 Nm
Torque RPM 3250 RPM 3600 RPM
Engine Bore Size 86.4 mm 89 mm
Engine Stroke Size 91 mm 88 mm
Engine Compression Ratio 11.3:1 9.0:1
Fuel Type Gasoline Gasoline
Drive Type Rear Front
Transmission Type Manual Automatic
Number of Seats 4 seats 5 seats
Vehicle Weight 1560 kg 1215 kg
Vehicle Length 4440 mm 4600 mm
Vehicle Width 1720 mm 1750 mm
Vehicle Height 1360 mm 1380 mm
Wheelbase Size 2710 mm 2650 mm