1996 Chevrolet Cavalier vs. 2005 Volkswagen Polo
To start off, 2005 Volkswagen Polo is newer by 9 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 2,189 cc (4 cylinders), 1996 Chevrolet Cavalier is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Volkswagen Polo (149 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 29 more horse power than 1996 Chevrolet Cavalier. (120 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Volkswagen Polo should accelerate faster than 1996 Chevrolet Cavalier. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Chevrolet Cavalier weights approximately 131 kg more than 2005 Volkswagen Polo.
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 68 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Volkswagen Polo. (115 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 1996 Chevrolet Cavalier will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Volkswagen Polo.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Chevrolet Cavalier | 2005 Volkswagen Polo | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Volkswagen |
| Model | Cavalier | Polo |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2005 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2189 cc | 1423 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 3 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 120 HP | 149 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 183 Nm | 115 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 89 mm | 76.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 88 mm | 77.4 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1191 kg | 1060 kg |
| Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 2520 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 57 L | 45 L |
