1997 Chevrolet Cavalier vs. 1970 Opel Commodore

To start off, 1997 Chevrolet Cavalier is newer by 27 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1970 Opel Commodore. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1970 Opel Commodore would be higher. At 2,490 cc (6 cylinders), 1970 Opel Commodore is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Chevrolet Cavalier (150 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 36 more horse power than 1970 Opel Commodore. (114 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 Chevrolet Cavalier should accelerate faster than 1970 Opel Commodore. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Chevrolet Cavalier weights approximately 17 kg more than 1970 Opel Commodore. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 1970 Opel Commodore 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 1970 Opel Commodore. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1997 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, 1997 Chevrolet Cavalier (210 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 33 more torque (in Nm) than 1970 Opel Commodore. (177 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 1997 Chevrolet Cavalier will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1970 Opel Commodore. 1997 Chevrolet Cavalier has automatic transmission and 1970 Opel Commodore has manual transmission. 1970 Opel Commodore will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1997 Chevrolet Cavalier will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

1997 Chevrolet Cavalier 1970 Opel Commodore
Make Chevrolet Opel
Model Cavalier Commodore
Year Released 1997 1970
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 2391 cc 2490 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 6 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Horse Power 150 HP 114 HP
Engine RPM 5600 RPM 5200 RPM
Torque 210 Nm 177 Nm
Torque RPM 4400 RPM 3800 RPM
Engine Bore Size 90 mm 87.1 mm
Engine Stroke Size 94 mm 69.8 mm
Drive Type Front Rear
Transmission Type Automatic Manual
Number of Seats 5 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 4 doors 2 doors
Vehicle Weight 1187 kg 1170 kg
Vehicle Length 4600 mm 4620 mm
Vehicle Width 1730 mm 1740 mm
Vehicle Height 1400 mm 1430 mm
Wheelbase Size 2650 mm 2680 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity 57 L 70 L