2009 BMW 118 vs. 1997 Chevrolet Cavalier
To start off, 2009 BMW 118 is newer by 12 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 2,190 cc (4 cylinders), 1997 Chevrolet Cavalier is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 BMW 118 (134 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 19 more horse power than 1997 Chevrolet Cavalier. (115 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 BMW 118 should accelerate faster than 1997 Chevrolet Cavalier. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 BMW 118 weights approximately 325 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 2009 BMW 118 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 2009 BMW 118. 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, 1997 Chevrolet Cavalier (183 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 3 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 BMW 118. (180 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 1997 Chevrolet Cavalier will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 BMW 118. 1997 Chevrolet Cavalier has automatic transmission and 2009 BMW 118 has manual transmission. 2009 BMW 118 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:
| 2009 BMW 118 | 1997 Chevrolet Cavalier | |
| Make | BMW | Chevrolet |
| Model | 118 | Cavalier |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1997 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1995 cc | 2190 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 134 HP | 115 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 180 Nm | 183 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 12.0:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1525 kg | 1200 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4250 mm | 4600 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2670 mm | 2650 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 53 L | 57 L |
