1981 Vauxhall Chevette vs. 2011 Chevrolet Cruze
To start off, 2011 Chevrolet Cruze is newer by 30 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Vauxhall Chevette. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Vauxhall Chevette would be higher. At 1,998 cc (4 cylinders), 2011 Chevrolet Cruze is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Chevrolet Cruze (161 HP @ 3800 RPM) has 105 more horse power than 1981 Vauxhall Chevette. (56 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Chevrolet Cruze should accelerate faster than 1981 Vauxhall Chevette.
Because 1981 Vauxhall Chevette 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 Vauxhall Chevette. 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, 2011 Chevrolet Cruze (360 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 271 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Vauxhall Chevette. (89 Nm @ 2600 RPM). This means 2011 Chevrolet Cruze will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Vauxhall Chevette.
Compare all specifications:
| 1981 Vauxhall Chevette | 2011 Chevrolet Cruze | |
| Make | Vauxhall | Chevrolet |
| Model | Chevette | Cruze |
| Year Released | 1981 | 2011 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1256 cc | 1998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 56 HP | 161 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Torque | 89 Nm | 360 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2600 RPM | 1750 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 81 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 61 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.7:1 | 16.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 3950 mm | 4597 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1580 mm | 1788 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1320 mm | 1476 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2400 mm | 2685 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 45 L | 59 L |
