1998 Chevrolet Cavalier vs. 2011 BMW 120
To start off, 2011 BMW 120 is newer by 13 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Chevrolet Cavalier. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Chevrolet Cavalier would be higher. At 2,190 cc (4 cylinders), 1998 Chevrolet Cavalier is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 BMW 120 (176 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 56 more horse power than 1998 Chevrolet Cavalier. (120 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 BMW 120 should accelerate faster than 1998 Chevrolet Cavalier. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 BMW 120 weights approximately 129 kg more than 1998 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, 1998 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 (350 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 167 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 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 1998 Chevrolet Cavalier. 2011 BMW 120 has automatic transmission and 1998 Chevrolet Cavalier has manual transmission. 1998 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:
| 1998 Chevrolet Cavalier | 2011 BMW 120 | |
| Make | Chevrolet | BMW |
| Model | Cavalier | 120 |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2011 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2190 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 | 176 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 183 Nm | 350 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 1750 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 16.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| 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 | 4370 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1430 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1760 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 2670 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 14 L/100km | 5.5 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 57 L | 51 L |
