1997 Chevrolet Cavalier vs. 1978 Ford Falcon
To start off, 1997 Chevrolet Cavalier is newer by 19 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Ford Falcon. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Ford Falcon would be higher. At 3,273 cc (6 cylinders), 1978 Ford Falcon is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1978 Ford Falcon (129 HP @ 4600 RPM) has 9 more horse power than 1997 Chevrolet Cavalier. (120 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1978 Ford Falcon should accelerate faster than 1997 Chevrolet Cavalier. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1978 Ford Falcon weights approximately 165 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 1978 Ford Falcon 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 1978 Ford Falcon. 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, 1978 Ford Falcon (263 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 80 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Chevrolet Cavalier. (183 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 1978 Ford Falcon will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Chevrolet Cavalier.
Compare all specifications:
1997 Chevrolet Cavalier | 1978 Ford Falcon | |
Make | Chevrolet | Ford |
Model | Cavalier | Falcon |
Year Released | 1997 | 1978 |
Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2189 cc | 3273 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 120 HP | 129 HP |
Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 4600 RPM |
Torque | 183 Nm | 263 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 2000 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 1215 kg | 1380 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4600 mm | 4870 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1910 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1390 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2830 mm |