2006 BMW Z4 vs. 1997 Chevrolet Cavalier
To start off, 2006 BMW Z4 is newer by 9 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 2,492 cc (6 cylinders), 2006 BMW Z4 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 BMW Z4 (189 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 39 more horse power than 1997 Chevrolet Cavalier. (150 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 BMW Z4 should accelerate faster than 1997 Chevrolet Cavalier. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 BMW Z4 weights approximately 88 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 2006 BMW Z4 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 Z4. 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, 2006 BMW Z4 (245 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 34 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Chevrolet Cavalier. (211 Nm @ 4400 RPM). This means 2006 BMW Z4 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Chevrolet Cavalier.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 BMW Z4 | 1997 Chevrolet Cavalier | |
| Make | BMW | Chevrolet |
| Model | Z4 | Cavalier |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1997 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2492 cc | 2392 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 189 HP | 150 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 245 Nm | 211 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 89.9 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 75 mm | 94 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1335 kg | 1247 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4100 mm | 4600 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1310 mm | 1350 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2500 mm | 2650 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 57 L |
