1991 Chevrolet Cavalier vs. 2012 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2012 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 21 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1991 Chevrolet Cavalier. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1991 Chevrolet Cavalier would be higher. At 2,189 cc (4 cylinders), 1991 Chevrolet Cavalier is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Volkswagen Golf (120 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 26 more horse power than 1991 Chevrolet Cavalier. (94 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Volkswagen Golf should accelerate faster than 1991 Chevrolet Cavalier. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Volkswagen Golf weights approximately 289 kg more than 1991 Chevrolet Cavalier. 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, 2012 Volkswagen Golf (200 Nm @ 1500 RPM) has 37 more torque (in Nm) than 1991 Chevrolet Cavalier. (163 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 2012 Volkswagen Golf will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1991 Chevrolet Cavalier.
Compare all specifications:
| 1991 Chevrolet Cavalier | 2012 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Volkswagen |
| Model | Cavalier | Golf |
| Year Released | 1991 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2189 cc | 1400 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 94 HP | 120 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 163 Nm | 200 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 1500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1105 kg | 1394 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4640 mm | 4534 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1781 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1330 mm | 1504 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2578 mm |
