1996 Chevrolet Cavalier vs. 2009 Volvo C30
To start off, 2009 Volvo C30 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 2,520 cc (5 cylinders), 2009 Volvo C30 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Volvo C30 (227 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 77 more horse power than 1996 Chevrolet Cavalier. (150 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Volvo C30 should accelerate faster than 1996 Chevrolet Cavalier. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Volvo C30 weights approximately 411 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, 2009 Volvo C30 (320 Nm @ 1500 RPM) has 110 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Chevrolet Cavalier. (210 Nm @ 4400 RPM). This means 2009 Volvo C30 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Chevrolet Cavalier.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Chevrolet Cavalier | 2009 Volvo C30 | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Volvo |
| Model | Cavalier | C30 |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2392 cc | 2520 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 150 HP | 227 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 210 Nm | 320 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4400 RPM | 1500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 90 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 94 mm | 96 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1187 kg | 1598 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4600 mm | 4260 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2650 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 57 L | 60 L |
