1996 Chevrolet Cavalier vs. 1989 Mercedes-Benz S

To start off, 1996 Chevrolet Cavalier is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1989 Mercedes-Benz S. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1989 Mercedes-Benz S would be higher. At 2,599 cc (6 cylinders), 1989 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1989 Mercedes-Benz S (164 HP @ 4600 RPM) has 44 more horse power than 1996 Chevrolet Cavalier. (120 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1989 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 1996 Chevrolet Cavalier. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1989 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 333 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.

Because 1989 Mercedes-Benz S is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 1989 Mercedes-Benz S. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1996 Chevrolet Cavalier, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. 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 Mercedes-Benz S (228 Nm @ 4600 RPM) has 52 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Chevrolet Cavalier. (176 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1989 Mercedes-Benz S 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 Mercedes-Benz S has manual transmission. 1989 Mercedes-Benz S 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 Mercedes-Benz S
Make Chevrolet Mercedes-Benz
Model Cavalier S
Year Released 1996 1989
Body Type Coupe Sedan
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 2190 cc 2599 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 6 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Valves per Cylinder 2 valves 2 valves
Horse Power 120 HP 164 HP
Engine RPM 5200 RPM 4600 RPM
Torque 176 Nm 228 Nm
Torque RPM 4000 RPM 4600 RPM
Engine Bore Size 89 mm 83 mm
Engine Stroke Size 88 mm 80.3 mm
Drive Type Front Rear
Transmission Type Automatic Manual
Number of Seats 5 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 2 doors 4 doors
Vehicle Weight 1187 kg 1520 kg
Vehicle Length 4590 mm 5030 mm
Vehicle Width 1750 mm 1830 mm
Vehicle Height 1360 mm 1440 mm
Wheelbase Size 2650 mm 2950 mm