1995 Chevrolet Cavalier vs. 2012 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2012 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 17 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1995 Chevrolet Cavalier. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1995 Chevrolet Cavalier would be higher. At 2,500 cc (5 cylinders), 2012 Volkswagen Golf is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Volkswagen Golf (170 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 20 more horse power than 1995 Chevrolet Cavalier. (150 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Volkswagen Golf should accelerate faster than 1995 Chevrolet Cavalier. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Volkswagen Golf weights approximately 159 kg more than 1995 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 (240 Nm @ 4250 RPM) has 29 more torque (in Nm) than 1995 Chevrolet Cavalier. (211 Nm @ 4400 RPM). This means 2012 Volkswagen Golf will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1995 Chevrolet Cavalier. 1995 Chevrolet Cavalier has automatic transmission and 2012 Volkswagen Golf has manual transmission. 2012 Volkswagen Golf will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1995 Chevrolet Cavalier will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1995 Chevrolet Cavalier | 2012 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Volkswagen |
| Model | Cavalier | Golf |
| Year Released | 1995 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2392 cc | 2500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 150 HP | 170 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Torque | 211 Nm | 240 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4400 RPM | 4250 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | 5-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1187 kg | 1346 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4590 mm | 4199 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1786 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1480 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2578 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 57 L | 55 L |
