2001 BMW 520 vs. 2009 Chevrolet Cobalt
To start off, 2009 Chevrolet Cobalt is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2001 BMW 520. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2001 BMW 520 would be higher. At 2,171 cc (6 cylinders), 2001 BMW 520 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Chevrolet Cobalt (261 HP @ 5300 RPM) has 94 more horse power than 2001 BMW 520. (167 HP @ 6500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Chevrolet Cobalt should accelerate faster than 2001 BMW 520. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 BMW 520 weights approximately 409 kg more than 2009 Chevrolet Cobalt.
Because 2001 BMW 520 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 2001 BMW 520. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 Chevrolet Cobalt, 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, 2009 Chevrolet Cobalt (353 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 143 more torque (in Nm) than 2001 BMW 520. (210 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2009 Chevrolet Cobalt will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2001 BMW 520.
Compare all specifications:
| 2001 BMW 520 | 2009 Chevrolet Cobalt | |
| Make | BMW | Chevrolet |
| Model | 520 | Cobalt |
| Year Released | 2001 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2171 cc | 1999 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 167 HP | 261 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 5300 RPM |
| Torque | 210 Nm | 353 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 9.1:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1670 kg | 1261 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4810 mm | 4590 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2630 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 49 L |
