1996 Chevrolet Cavalier vs. 2012 Chevrolet Silverado
To start off, 2012 Chevrolet Silverado is newer by 16 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 5,999 cc (8 cylinders), 2012 Chevrolet Silverado is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Chevrolet Silverado (332 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 182 more horse power than 1996 Chevrolet Cavalier. (150 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Chevrolet Silverado should accelerate faster than 1996 Chevrolet Cavalier. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Chevrolet Silverado weights approximately 74 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.
Because 2012 Chevrolet Silverado is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1996 Chevrolet Cavalier. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 Chevrolet Silverado will offer significantly more control. 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, 2012 Chevrolet Silverado (498 Nm @ 4100 RPM) has 288 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Chevrolet Cavalier. (210 Nm @ 4400 RPM). This means 2012 Chevrolet Silverado will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Chevrolet Cavalier. 2012 Chevrolet Silverado has automatic transmission and 1996 Chevrolet Cavalier has manual transmission. 1996 Chevrolet Cavalier will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2012 Chevrolet Silverado will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Chevrolet Cavalier | 2012 Chevrolet Silverado | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Chevrolet |
| Model | Cavalier | Silverado |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Pickup |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2392 cc | 5999 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 150 HP | 332 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5100 RPM |
| Torque | 210 Nm | 498 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4400 RPM | 4100 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 10.8:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 6 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1187 kg | 1261 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4600 mm | 5850 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 2040 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1880 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 3650 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 57 L | 98 L |
