1988 Ford Tempo vs. 1999 Chevrolet Cavalier
To start off, 1999 Chevrolet Cavalier is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 Ford Tempo. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 Ford Tempo would be higher. At 2,307 cc (4 cylinders), 1988 Ford Tempo is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1999 Chevrolet Cavalier (120 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 24 more horse power than 1988 Ford Tempo. (96 HP @ 4400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1999 Chevrolet Cavalier should accelerate faster than 1988 Ford Tempo. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 Chevrolet Cavalier weights approximately 82 kg more than 1988 Ford Tempo. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. 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, 1999 Chevrolet Cavalier (183 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 7 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 Ford Tempo. (176 Nm @ 2600 RPM). This means 1999 Chevrolet Cavalier will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 Ford Tempo. 1999 Chevrolet Cavalier has automatic transmission and 1988 Ford Tempo has manual transmission. 1988 Ford Tempo will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1999 Chevrolet Cavalier will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1988 Ford Tempo | 1999 Chevrolet Cavalier | |
| Make | Ford | Chevrolet |
| Model | Tempo | Cavalier |
| Year Released | 1988 | 1999 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2307 cc | 2188 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 96 HP | 120 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4400 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 176 Nm | 183 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2600 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 93.5 mm | 89 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 84 mm | 88 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1105 kg | 1187 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4480 mm | 4600 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1350 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2540 mm | 2810 mm |
