2008 BMW M3 vs. 1997 Chevrolet Cavalier
To start off, 2008 BMW M3 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 3,246 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 BMW M3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 BMW M3 (338 HP @ 7900 RPM) has 188 more horse power than 1997 Chevrolet Cavalier. (150 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 1997 Chevrolet Cavalier. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 BMW M3 weights approximately 468 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 M3 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 M3. 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 M3 (365 Nm @ 4900 RPM) has 155 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Chevrolet Cavalier. (210 Nm @ 4400 RPM). This means 2008 BMW M3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Chevrolet Cavalier. 1997 Chevrolet Cavalier has automatic transmission and 2008 BMW M3 has manual transmission. 2008 BMW M3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1997 Chevrolet Cavalier will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 BMW M3 | 1997 Chevrolet Cavalier | |
| Make | BMW | Chevrolet |
| Model | M3 | Cavalier |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1997 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3246 cc | 2391 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 338 HP | 150 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7900 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 365 Nm | 210 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4900 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 87.1 mm | 90 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 91 mm | 94 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.5:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1655 kg | 1187 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4500 mm | 4600 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2740 mm | 2650 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 57 L |
