1996 Chevrolet Cavalier vs. 1989 Citroen CX
To start off, 1996 Chevrolet Cavalier is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1989 Citroen CX. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1989 Citroen CX would be higher. At 2,500 cc (4 cylinders), 1989 Citroen CX is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1989 Citroen CX (138 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 18 more horse power than 1996 Chevrolet Cavalier. (120 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1989 Citroen CX should accelerate faster than 1996 Chevrolet Cavalier. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1989 Citroen CX weights approximately 233 kg more than 1996 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, 1989 Citroen CX (206 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 30 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Chevrolet Cavalier. (176 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1989 Citroen CX will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Chevrolet Cavalier. 1996 Chevrolet Cavalier has automatic transmission and 1989 Citroen CX has manual transmission. 1989 Citroen CX will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1996 Chevrolet Cavalier will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Chevrolet Cavalier | 1989 Citroen CX | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Citroen |
| Model | Cavalier | CX |
| Year Released | 1996 | 1989 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2190 cc | 2500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 120 HP | 138 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 176 Nm | 206 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 89 mm | 93 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 88 mm | 92 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 8.7:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1187 kg | 1420 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4590 mm | 4910 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1360 mm | 1390 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 3100 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 57 L | 80 L |
