2012 Chevrolet Cruze vs. 2004 BMW 318
To start off, 2012 Chevrolet Cruze is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2004 BMW 318. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2004 BMW 318 would be higher. At 1,995 cc (4 cylinders), 2004 BMW 318 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 BMW 318 (148 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 10 more horse power than 2012 Chevrolet Cruze. (138 HP @ 4900 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 BMW 318 should accelerate faster than 2012 Chevrolet Cruze. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 BMW 318 weights approximately 68 kg more than 2012 Chevrolet Cruze. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2004 BMW 318 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 2004 BMW 318. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 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, both vehicles can yield 200 Nm of torque. So under normal driving conditions, the ability to climb up hills and pull heavy equipment should be relatively similar for both vehicles. 2004 BMW 318 has automatic transmission and 2012 Chevrolet Cruze has manual transmission. 2012 Chevrolet Cruze will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2004 BMW 318 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2012 Chevrolet Cruze | 2004 BMW 318 | |
| Make | Chevrolet | BMW |
| Model | Cruze | 318 |
| Year Released | 2012 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1400 cc | 1995 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4900 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 200 Nm | 200 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1850 RPM | 3750 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | 6-speed manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1407 kg | 1475 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4597 mm | 4480 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1788 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1476 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2685 mm | 2670 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 59 L | 63 L |
