1997 Chevrolet Cavalier vs. 1972 Chrysler Centura
To start off, 1997 Chevrolet Cavalier is newer by 25 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1972 Chrysler Centura. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1972 Chrysler Centura would be higher. At 2,190 cc (4 cylinders), 1997 Chevrolet Cavalier is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Chevrolet Cavalier (120 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 2 more horse power than 1972 Chrysler Centura. (118 HP @ 5700 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 Chevrolet Cavalier should accelerate faster than 1972 Chrysler Centura. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Chevrolet Cavalier weights approximately 79 kg more than 1972 Chrysler Centura. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1972 Chrysler Centura 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 1972 Chrysler Centura. 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 (183 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 8 more torque (in Nm) than 1972 Chrysler Centura. (175 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1997 Chevrolet Cavalier will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1972 Chrysler Centura. 1972 Chrysler Centura has automatic transmission and 1997 Chevrolet Cavalier has manual transmission. 1997 Chevrolet Cavalier will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1972 Chrysler Centura will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Chevrolet Cavalier | 1972 Chrysler Centura | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Chrysler |
| Model | Cavalier | Centura |
| Year Released | 1997 | 1972 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2190 cc | 1981 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 120 HP | 118 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Torque | 183 Nm | 175 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1194 kg | 1115 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4600 mm | 4590 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 2680 mm |
