1996 Chevrolet Cavalier vs. 1981 Volkswagen Santana
To start off, 1996 Chevrolet Cavalier is newer by 15 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Volkswagen Santana. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Volkswagen Santana would be higher. At 2,190 cc (4 cylinders), 1996 Chevrolet Cavalier is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Chevrolet Cavalier (120 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 30 more horse power than 1981 Volkswagen Santana. (90 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 Chevrolet Cavalier should accelerate faster than 1981 Volkswagen Santana. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Chevrolet Cavalier weights approximately 425 kg more than 1981 Volkswagen Santana. 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, 1996 Chevrolet Cavalier (183 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 38 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Volkswagen Santana. (145 Nm @ 3300 RPM). This means 1996 Chevrolet Cavalier will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Volkswagen Santana. 1981 Volkswagen Santana has automatic transmission and 1996 Chevrolet Cavalier has manual transmission. 1996 Chevrolet Cavalier will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1981 Volkswagen Santana will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1996 Chevrolet Cavalier | 1981 Volkswagen Santana | |
Make | Chevrolet | Volkswagen |
Model | Cavalier | Santana |
Year Released | 1996 | 1981 |
Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2190 cc | 1781 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 120 HP | 90 HP |
Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 5200 RPM |
Torque | 183 Nm | 145 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 3300 RPM |
Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 10.0:1 |
Drive Type | Front | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1215 kg | 790 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4600 mm | 4550 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1700 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1410 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2560 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 57 L | 60 L |