1996 Chevrolet Cavalier vs. 2008 Toyota Matrix
To start off, 2008 Toyota Matrix is newer by 12 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, 2008 Toyota Matrix (126 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 6 more horse power than 1996 Chevrolet Cavalier. (120 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Toyota Matrix should accelerate faster than 1996 Chevrolet Cavalier. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Toyota Matrix weights approximately 168 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, 1996 Chevrolet Cavalier (176 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 11 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Toyota Matrix. (165 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 1996 Chevrolet Cavalier will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Toyota Matrix. 1996 Chevrolet Cavalier has automatic transmission and 2008 Toyota Matrix has manual transmission. 2008 Toyota Matrix 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 | 2008 Toyota Matrix | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Toyota |
| Model | Cavalier | Matrix |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2190 cc | 1794 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 120 HP | 126 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 176 Nm | 165 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1187 kg | 1355 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4590 mm | 4360 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1360 mm | 1570 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2610 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 57 L | 50 L |
