1997 Chevrolet Cavalier vs. 2009 BMW 116
To start off, 2009 BMW 116 is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Chevrolet Cavalier. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Chevrolet Cavalier would be higher. At 2,190 cc (4 cylinders), 1997 Chevrolet Cavalier is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, both vehicles can yield 120 horse power. So under normal driving conditions, the acceleration of both vehicles should be relatively similar. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 BMW 116 weights approximately 126 kg more than 1997 Chevrolet Cavalier.
Because 2009 BMW 116 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 2009 BMW 116. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1997 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, 1997 Chevrolet Cavalier (183 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 23 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 BMW 116. (160 Nm @ 4250 RPM). This means 1997 Chevrolet Cavalier will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 BMW 116. 2009 BMW 116 has automatic transmission and 1997 Chevrolet Cavalier has manual transmission. 1997 Chevrolet Cavalier will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2009 BMW 116 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Chevrolet Cavalier | 2009 BMW 116 | |
| Make | Chevrolet | BMW |
| Model | Cavalier | 116 |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2009 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2190 cc | 1595 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 120 HP | 120 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 183 Nm | 160 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 4250 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 89 mm | 82 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 88 mm | 75.6 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 12.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1194 kg | 1320 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4600 mm | 4250 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 2670 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 14 L/100km | 5.8 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 57 L | 53 L |
