1997 Chevrolet Cavalier vs. 1981 Ford Taunus
To start off, 1997 Chevrolet Cavalier is newer by 16 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Ford Taunus. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Ford Taunus 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 58 more horse power than 1981 Ford Taunus. (57 HP). In normal driving conditions, 1997 Chevrolet Cavalier should accelerate faster than 1981 Ford Taunus. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Chevrolet Cavalier weights approximately 180 kg more than 1981 Ford Taunus. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1981 Ford Taunus 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 1981 Ford Taunus. 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 91 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Ford Taunus. (92 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1997 Chevrolet Cavalier will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Ford Taunus. 1997 Chevrolet Cavalier has automatic transmission and 1981 Ford Taunus has manual transmission. 1981 Ford Taunus 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 | 1981 Ford Taunus | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Ford |
| Model | Cavalier | Taunus |
| Year Released | 1997 | 1981 |
| 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 | 57 HP |
| Torque | 183 Nm | 92 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 89 mm | 79 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 88 mm | 66 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1200 kg | 1020 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4600 mm | 4350 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1330 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2580 mm |
