2004 BMW 318 vs. 1997 Chevrolet Cavalier
To start off, 2004 BMW 318 is newer by 7 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 2,189 cc (4 cylinders), 1997 Chevrolet Cavalier is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 BMW 318 (141 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 21 more horse power than 1997 Chevrolet Cavalier. (120 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 BMW 318 should accelerate faster than 1997 Chevrolet Cavalier. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 BMW 318 weights approximately 365 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 2004 BMW 318 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 2004 BMW 318. 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, 2004 BMW 318 (200 Nm @ 3750 RPM) has 17 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Chevrolet Cavalier. (183 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 2004 BMW 318 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Chevrolet Cavalier. 1997 Chevrolet Cavalier has automatic transmission and 2004 BMW 318 has manual transmission. 2004 BMW 318 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1997 Chevrolet Cavalier will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 BMW 318 | 1997 Chevrolet Cavalier | |
| Make | BMW | Chevrolet |
| Model | 318 | Cavalier |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1997 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1995 cc | 2189 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 141 HP | 120 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 200 Nm | 183 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3750 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1580 kg | 1215 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4490 mm | 4600 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1380 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2650 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 57 L |
