1997 Chevrolet Cavalier vs. 2012 BMW X5
To start off, 2012 BMW X5 is newer by 15 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 4,400 cc (8 cylinders), 2012 BMW X5 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 BMW X5 (400 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 280 more horse power than 1997 Chevrolet Cavalier. (120 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 BMW X5 should accelerate faster than 1997 Chevrolet Cavalier. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 BMW X5 weights approximately 1225 kg more than 1997 Chevrolet Cavalier. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2012 BMW X5 is all wheel drive (AWD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1997 Chevrolet Cavalier. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 BMW X5 will offer significantly more control. 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, 2012 BMW X5 (609 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 426 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Chevrolet Cavalier. (183 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 2012 BMW X5 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Chevrolet Cavalier. 2012 BMW X5 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. 2012 BMW X5 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Chevrolet Cavalier | 2012 BMW X5 | |
| Make | Chevrolet | BMW |
| Model | Cavalier | X5 |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Convertible | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2189 cc | 4400 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 120 HP | 400 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 183 Nm | 609 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 1750 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | AWD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 8-speed shiftable automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1215 kg | 2440 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4600 mm | 4854 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1933 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1775 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2933 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 57 L | 85 L |
