1997 Chevrolet Cavalier vs. 1972 Ford Mustang
To start off, 1997 Chevrolet Cavalier is newer by 25 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1972 Ford Mustang. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1972 Ford Mustang would be higher. At 5,753 cc (8 cylinders), 1972 Ford Mustang is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1972 Ford Mustang (267 HP @ 5400 RPM) has 147 more horse power than 1997 Chevrolet Cavalier. (120 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1972 Ford Mustang should accelerate faster than 1997 Chevrolet Cavalier. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1972 Ford Mustang weights approximately 460 kg more than 1997 Chevrolet Cavalier. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1972 Ford Mustang 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 Ford Mustang. 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, 1972 Ford Mustang (417 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 234 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Chevrolet Cavalier. (183 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 1972 Ford Mustang will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Chevrolet Cavalier.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Chevrolet Cavalier | 1972 Ford Mustang | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Ford |
| Model | Cavalier | Mustang |
| Year Released | 1997 | 1972 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2190 cc | 5753 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 120 HP | 267 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 183 Nm | 417 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 89 mm | 101.6 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 88 mm | 88.8 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1194 kg | 1654 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4600 mm | 4820 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1890 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1280 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 2780 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 57 L | 73 L |
