1996 Chevrolet Cavalier vs. 2011 BMW 120
To start off, 2011 BMW 120 is newer by 15 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Chevrolet Cavalier. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Chevrolet Cavalier would be higher. At 2,189 cc (4 cylinders), 1996 Chevrolet Cavalier is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 BMW 120 (154 HP @ 6700 RPM) has 34 more horse power than 1996 Chevrolet Cavalier. (120 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 BMW 120 should accelerate faster than 1996 Chevrolet Cavalier. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 BMW 120 weights approximately 129 kg more than 1996 Chevrolet Cavalier. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2011 BMW 120 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 2011 BMW 120. 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, 2011 BMW 120 (200 Nm @ 4250 RPM) has 17 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Chevrolet Cavalier. (183 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 2011 BMW 120 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Chevrolet Cavalier. 2011 BMW 120 has automatic transmission and 1996 Chevrolet Cavalier has manual transmission. 1996 Chevrolet Cavalier will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2011 BMW 120 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Chevrolet Cavalier | 2011 BMW 120 | |
| Make | Chevrolet | BMW |
| Model | Cavalier | 120 |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2011 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2189 cc | 1995 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 120 HP | 154 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 6700 RPM |
| Torque | 183 Nm | 200 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 4250 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 89 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 88 mm | 90 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 12.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1191 kg | 1320 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4600 mm | 4250 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1430 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1750 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 2670 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 14 L/100km | 8.2 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 57 L | 53 L |
