1997 Chevrolet Cavalier vs. 1976 Ford Capri

To start off, 1997 Chevrolet Cavalier is newer by 21 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1976 Ford Capri. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1976 Ford Capri 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 (115 HP) has 61 more horse power than 1976 Ford Capri. (54 HP). In normal driving conditions, 1997 Chevrolet Cavalier should accelerate faster than 1976 Ford Capri. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Chevrolet Cavalier weights approximately 190 kg more than 1976 Ford Capri. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 1976 Ford Capri 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 1976 Ford Capri. 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 96 more torque (in Nm) than 1976 Ford Capri. (87 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1997 Chevrolet Cavalier will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1976 Ford Capri.

Compare all specifications:

1997 Chevrolet Cavalier 1976 Ford Capri
Make Chevrolet Ford
Model Cavalier Capri
Year Released 1997 1976
Body Type Sedan Coupe
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 2190 cc 1294 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Horse Power 115 HP 54 HP
Torque 183 Nm 87 Nm
Torque RPM 3600 RPM 3000 RPM
Engine Bore Size 89 mm 79.1 mm
Engine Stroke Size 88 mm 66 mm
Engine Compression Ratio 9.0:1 8.0:1
Drive Type Front Rear
Number of Seats 5 seats 2 seats
Number of Doors 4 doors 2 doors
Vehicle Weight 1200 kg 1010 kg
Vehicle Length 4600 mm 4290 mm
Vehicle Width 1730 mm 1710 mm
Vehicle Height 1400 mm 1360 mm
Wheelbase Size 2650 mm 2560 mm