1996 Chevrolet Cavalier vs. 2003 Fiat Punto
To start off, 2003 Fiat Punto is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Chevrolet Cavalier. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Chevrolet Cavalier 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 37 more horse power than 2003 Fiat Punto. (83 HP @ 3500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 Chevrolet Cavalier should accelerate faster than 2003 Fiat Punto. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Chevrolet Cavalier weights approximately 147 kg more than 2003 Fiat Punto. 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, 2003 Fiat Punto (196 Nm @ 1500 RPM) has 20 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Chevrolet Cavalier. (176 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2003 Fiat Punto will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Chevrolet Cavalier. 1996 Chevrolet Cavalier has automatic transmission and 2003 Fiat Punto has manual transmission. 2003 Fiat Punto 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 | 2003 Fiat Punto | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Fiat |
| Model | Cavalier | Punto |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2190 cc | 1901 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 120 HP | 83 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Torque | 176 Nm | 196 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 1500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 89 mm | 82 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 88 mm | 90.4 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 18.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1187 kg | 1040 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4590 mm | 3850 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1670 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1360 mm | 1490 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2470 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 57 L | 49 L |
