1987 Ford Sierra vs. 2004 Chevrolet Cavalier
To start off, 2004 Chevrolet Cavalier is newer by 17 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1987 Ford Sierra. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1987 Ford Sierra would be higher. At 2,188 cc (4 cylinders), 2004 Chevrolet Cavalier is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1987 Ford Sierra (204 HP @ 6250 RPM) has 84 more horse power than 2004 Chevrolet Cavalier. (120 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1987 Ford Sierra should accelerate faster than 2004 Chevrolet Cavalier. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1987 Ford Sierra weights approximately 63 kg more than 2004 Chevrolet Cavalier. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1987 Ford Sierra 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 1987 Ford Sierra. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 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, 1987 Ford Sierra (277 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 94 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Chevrolet Cavalier. (183 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 1987 Ford Sierra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Chevrolet Cavalier. 2004 Chevrolet Cavalier has automatic transmission and 1987 Ford Sierra has manual transmission. 1987 Ford Sierra will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2004 Chevrolet Cavalier will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1987 Ford Sierra | 2004 Chevrolet Cavalier | |
| Make | Ford | Chevrolet |
| Model | Sierra | Cavalier |
| Year Released | 1987 | 2004 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1993 cc | 2188 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 204 HP | 120 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6250 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 277 Nm | 183 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 90.8 mm | 89 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 77 mm | 88 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.0:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1250 kg | 1187 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4470 mm | 4600 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1350 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2500 mm | 2810 mm |
