2008 BMW 320 vs. 1999 Chevrolet Prizm

To start off, 2008 BMW 320 is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1999 Chevrolet Prizm. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1999 Chevrolet Prizm would be higher. At 1,993 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 BMW 320 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 BMW 320 (161 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 38 more horse power than 1999 Chevrolet Prizm. (123 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 BMW 320 should accelerate faster than 1999 Chevrolet Prizm. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 BMW 320 weights approximately 488 kg more than 1999 Chevrolet Prizm. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 2008 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 2008 BMW 320. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1999 Chevrolet Prizm, 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, 2008 BMW 320 (340 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 171 more torque (in Nm) than 1999 Chevrolet Prizm. (169 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2008 BMW 320 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1999 Chevrolet Prizm.

Compare all specifications:

2008 BMW 320 1999 Chevrolet Prizm
Make BMW Chevrolet
Model 320 Prizm
Year Released 2008 1999
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 1993 cc 1794 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Valves per Cylinder 4 valves 4 valves
Horse Power 161 HP 123 HP
Engine RPM 4000 RPM 5600 RPM
Torque 340 Nm 169 Nm
Torque RPM 2000 RPM 4000 RPM
Fuel Type Diesel Gasoline
Drive Type Rear Front
Transmission Type Manual Manual
Number of Seats 5 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 4 doors 4 doors
Vehicle Weight 1580 kg 1092 kg
Vehicle Length 4530 mm 4430 mm
Vehicle Width 1820 mm 1700 mm
Vehicle Height 1420 mm 1370 mm
Wheelbase Size 2770 mm 2470 mm