1981 Austin Marina vs. 2003 Chevrolet Cavalier
To start off, 2003 Chevrolet Cavalier is newer by 22 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Austin Marina. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Austin Marina would be higher. At 2,189 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 Chevrolet Cavalier is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Chevrolet Cavalier (120 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 61 more horse power than 1981 Austin Marina. (59 HP @ 5250 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Chevrolet Cavalier should accelerate faster than 1981 Austin Marina. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Chevrolet Cavalier weights approximately 307 kg more than 1981 Austin Marina. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1981 Austin Marina 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 1981 Austin Marina. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 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, 2003 Chevrolet Cavalier (176 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 74 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Austin Marina. (102 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2003 Chevrolet Cavalier will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Austin Marina.
Compare all specifications:
| 1981 Austin Marina | 2003 Chevrolet Cavalier | |
| Make | Austin | Chevrolet |
| Model | Marina | Cavalier |
| Year Released | 1981 | 2003 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1275 cc | 2189 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 59 HP | 120 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5250 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 102 Nm | 176 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 880 kg | 1187 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4230 mm | 4600 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1660 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1360 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2440 mm | 2810 mm |
