1996 Chevrolet Cavalier vs. 2009 Chevrolet Avalanche

To start off, 2009 Chevrolet Avalanche is newer by 13 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 5,300 cc (8 cylinders), 2009 Chevrolet Avalanche is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Chevrolet Avalanche (310 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 190 more horse power than 1996 Chevrolet Cavalier. (120 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Chevrolet Avalanche should accelerate faster than 1996 Chevrolet Cavalier. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Chevrolet Cavalier weights approximately 82 kg more than 2009 Chevrolet Avalanche.

Because 2009 Chevrolet Avalanche 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 2009 Chevrolet Avalanche. 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, 2009 Chevrolet Avalanche (454 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 278 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Chevrolet Cavalier. (176 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2009 Chevrolet Avalanche will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Chevrolet Cavalier.

Compare all specifications:

1996 Chevrolet Cavalier 2009 Chevrolet Avalanche
Make Chevrolet Chevrolet
Model Cavalier Avalanche
Year Released 1996 2009
Body Type Coupe Pickup
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 2190 cc 5300 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 8 cylinders
Engine Type in-line V
Valves per Cylinder 2 valves 2 valves
Horse Power 120 HP 310 HP
Engine RPM 5200 RPM 5200 RPM
Torque 176 Nm 454 Nm
Torque RPM 4000 RPM 4400 RPM
Engine Compression Ratio 9.0:1 9.3:1
Drive Type Front Rear
Transmission Type Automatic Automatic
Number of Seats 5 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 2 doors 4 doors
Vehicle Weight 1187 kg 1105 kg
Vehicle Length 4590 mm 5630 mm
Vehicle Width 1750 mm 2020 mm
Vehicle Height 1360 mm 1950 mm
Wheelbase Size 2650 mm 3310 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity 57 L 117 L