1997 Chevrolet Cavalier vs. 1976 Pontiac Trans Am
To start off, 1997 Chevrolet Cavalier is newer by 21 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1976 Pontiac Trans Am. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1976 Pontiac Trans Am would be higher. At 6,556 cc (8 cylinders), 1976 Pontiac Trans Am is equipped with a bigger engine.
Because 1976 Pontiac Trans Am 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 Pontiac Trans Am. 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, 1976 Pontiac Trans Am (434 Nm) has 224 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Chevrolet Cavalier. (210 Nm). This means 1976 Pontiac Trans Am will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Chevrolet Cavalier. 1997 Chevrolet Cavalier has automatic transmission and 1976 Pontiac Trans Am has manual transmission. 1976 Pontiac Trans Am 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 | 1976 Pontiac Trans Am | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Pontiac |
| Model | Cavalier | Trans Am |
| Year Released | 1997 | 1976 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2391 cc | 6556 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 150 HP | 0 HP |
| Torque | 210 Nm | 434 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 90 mm | 104.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 94 mm | 95.3 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 8.1:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4600 mm | 5040 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1260 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2750 mm |
