2004 BMW 320 vs. 1998 Chevrolet Cavalier
To start off, 2004 BMW 320 is newer by 6 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, 2004 BMW 320 (174 HP @ 6100 RPM) has 54 more horse power than 1998 Chevrolet Cavalier. (120 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 BMW 320 should accelerate faster than 1998 Chevrolet Cavalier. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 BMW 320 weights approximately 424 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 2004 BMW 320 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 320. 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, 2004 BMW 320 (211 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 28 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Chevrolet Cavalier. (183 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 2004 BMW 320 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Chevrolet Cavalier. 1998 Chevrolet Cavalier has automatic transmission and 2004 BMW 320 has manual transmission. 2004 BMW 320 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1998 Chevrolet Cavalier will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 BMW 320 | 1998 Chevrolet Cavalier | |
| Make | BMW | Chevrolet |
| Model | 320 | Cavalier |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1998 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2171 cc | 2190 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 174 HP | 120 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6100 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 211 Nm | 183 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 89.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 72 mm | 88 mm |
| 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 | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1615 kg | 1191 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4490 mm | 4600 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2570 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 9.4 L/100km | 14 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 57 L |
