2008 BMW 550 vs. 1997 Chevrolet Cavalier
To start off, 2008 BMW 550 is newer by 11 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 4,800 cc (8 cylinders), 2008 BMW 550 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 BMW 550 (360 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 210 more horse power than 1997 Chevrolet Cavalier. (150 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 BMW 550 should accelerate faster than 1997 Chevrolet Cavalier. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 BMW 550 weights approximately 483 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 2008 BMW 550 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 550. 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, 2008 BMW 550 (489 Nm @ 3400 RPM) has 278 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Chevrolet Cavalier. (211 Nm @ 4400 RPM). This means 2008 BMW 550 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Chevrolet Cavalier.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 BMW 550 | 1997 Chevrolet Cavalier | |
| Make | BMW | Chevrolet |
| Model | 550 | Cavalier |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1997 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4800 cc | 2392 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 360 HP | 150 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 489 Nm | 211 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3400 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1730 kg | 1247 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4860 mm | 4600 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1850 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1350 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2890 mm | 2650 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 57 L |
