1997 Chevrolet Cavalier vs. 1980 Ford Fiesta
To start off, 1997 Chevrolet Cavalier is newer by 17 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1980 Ford Fiesta. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1980 Ford Fiesta 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 @ 5000 RPM) has 76 more horse power than 1980 Ford Fiesta. (39 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 Chevrolet Cavalier should accelerate faster than 1980 Ford Fiesta. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Chevrolet Cavalier weights approximately 473 kg more than 1980 Ford Fiesta. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. 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 119 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Ford Fiesta. (64 Nm @ 2700 RPM). This means 1997 Chevrolet Cavalier will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Ford Fiesta. 1997 Chevrolet Cavalier has automatic transmission and 1980 Ford Fiesta has manual transmission. 1980 Ford Fiesta 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 | 1980 Ford Fiesta | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Ford |
| Model | Cavalier | Fiesta |
| Year Released | 1997 | 1980 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2190 cc | 957 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 115 HP | 39 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 183 Nm | 64 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 2700 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 89 mm | 74 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 88 mm | 55.7 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 8.3:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1188 kg | 715 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4600 mm | 3570 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1570 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1370 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2300 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 57 L | 34 L |
