2006 BMW 320 vs. 1996 Chevrolet Cavalier
To start off, 2006 BMW 320 is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Chevrolet Cavalier. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Chevrolet Cavalier would be higher. At 2,190 cc (4 cylinders), 1996 Chevrolet Cavalier is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 BMW 320 (148 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 28 more horse power than 1996 Chevrolet Cavalier. (120 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 BMW 320 should accelerate faster than 1996 Chevrolet Cavalier. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 BMW 320 weights approximately 365 kg more than 1996 Chevrolet Cavalier. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2006 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 2006 BMW 320. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1996 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, 2006 BMW 320 (330 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 147 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Chevrolet Cavalier. (183 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 2006 BMW 320 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Chevrolet Cavalier.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 BMW 320 | 1996 Chevrolet Cavalier | |
| Make | BMW | Chevrolet |
| Model | 320 | Cavalier |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1996 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1994 cc | 2190 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 120 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 330 Nm | 183 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 17.0:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1580 kg | 1215 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4480 mm | 4600 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1380 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2650 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 57 L |
