2009 BMW 320 vs. 2012 Chevrolet Traverse
To start off, 2012 Chevrolet Traverse is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2009 BMW 320. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2009 BMW 320 would be higher. At 3,600 cc (6 cylinders), 2012 Chevrolet Traverse is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Chevrolet Traverse (281 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 113 more horse power than 2009 BMW 320. (168 HP @ 6100 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Chevrolet Traverse should accelerate faster than 2009 BMW 320. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Chevrolet Traverse weights approximately 637 kg more than 2009 BMW 320. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2009 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 2009 BMW 320. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 Chevrolet Traverse, 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, 2012 Chevrolet Traverse (360 Nm @ 3400 RPM) has 150 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 BMW 320. (210 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2012 Chevrolet Traverse will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 BMW 320. 2012 Chevrolet Traverse has automatic transmission and 2009 BMW 320 has manual transmission. 2009 BMW 320 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2012 Chevrolet Traverse will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 BMW 320 | 2012 Chevrolet Traverse | |
| Make | BMW | Chevrolet |
| Model | 320 | Traverse |
| Year Released | 2009 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Crossover |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2171 cc | 3600 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 168 HP | 281 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6100 RPM | 6300 RPM |
| Torque | 210 Nm | 360 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 3400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed shiftable automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 7 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1476 kg | 2113 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4490 mm | 5207 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1991 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1849 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 3020 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 83 L |
