1997 Chevrolet Cavalier vs. 1980 Nissan Skyline
To start off, 1997 Chevrolet Cavalier is newer by 17 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1980 Nissan Skyline. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1980 Nissan Skyline 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 (120 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 14 more horse power than 1980 Nissan Skyline. (106 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 Chevrolet Cavalier should accelerate faster than 1980 Nissan Skyline.
Because 1980 Nissan Skyline 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 1980 Nissan Skyline. 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 21 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Nissan Skyline. (162 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 1997 Chevrolet Cavalier will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Nissan Skyline. 1980 Nissan Skyline has automatic transmission and 1997 Chevrolet Cavalier has manual transmission. 1997 Chevrolet Cavalier will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1980 Nissan Skyline will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Chevrolet Cavalier | 1980 Nissan Skyline | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Nissan |
| Model | Cavalier | Skyline |
| Year Released | 1997 | 1980 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2190 cc | 1998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 120 HP | 106 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 183 Nm | 162 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Vehicle Weight | 1194 kg | 1194 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4600 mm | 4610 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1640 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1380 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 2620 mm |
