2012 BMW Z4 vs. 2011 Chevrolet Cruze
To start off, 2012 BMW Z4 is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2011 Chevrolet Cruze. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2011 Chevrolet Cruze would be higher. At 1,997 cc (4 cylinders), 2012 BMW Z4 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 BMW Z4 (182 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 60 more horse power than 2011 Chevrolet Cruze. (122 HP @ 6200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2012 BMW Z4 should accelerate faster than 2011 Chevrolet Cruze. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 BMW Z4 weights approximately 175 kg more than 2011 Chevrolet Cruze. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2012 BMW Z4 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 2012 BMW Z4. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2011 Chevrolet Cruze, 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 BMW Z4 (270 Nm @ 1250 RPM) has 116 more torque (in Nm) than 2011 Chevrolet Cruze. (154 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 2012 BMW Z4 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2011 Chevrolet Cruze. 2011 Chevrolet Cruze has automatic transmission and 2012 BMW Z4 has manual transmission. 2012 BMW Z4 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2011 Chevrolet Cruze will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2012 BMW Z4 | 2011 Chevrolet Cruze | |
| Make | BMW | Chevrolet |
| Model | Z4 | Cruze |
| Year Released | 2012 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1997 cc | 1598 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 182 HP | 122 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Torque | 270 Nm | 154 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1250 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 90.1 mm | 79 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 84 mm | 81.5 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Top Speed | 235 km/hour | 190 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 6.9 seconds | 12 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1480 kg | 1305 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4239 mm | 4510 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1791 mm | 1797 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1290 mm | 1476 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2497 mm | 2685 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 59 L |
