1997 Chevrolet Cavalier vs. 1981 Nissan Skyline
To start off, 1997 Chevrolet Cavalier is newer by 16 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Nissan Skyline. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 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 (115 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 26 more horse power than 1981 Nissan Skyline. (89 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 Chevrolet Cavalier should accelerate faster than 1981 Nissan Skyline. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Chevrolet Cavalier weights approximately 143 kg more than 1981 Nissan Skyline. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1981 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 1981 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 50 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Nissan Skyline. (133 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 1997 Chevrolet Cavalier will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Nissan Skyline. 1997 Chevrolet Cavalier has automatic transmission and 1981 Nissan Skyline has manual transmission. 1981 Nissan Skyline 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 Nissan Skyline | |
Make | Chevrolet | Nissan |
Model | Cavalier | Skyline |
Year Released | 1997 | 1981 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2190 cc | 1595 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 115 HP | 89 HP |
Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
Torque | 183 Nm | 133 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 3600 RPM |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
Vehicle Weight | 1188 kg | 1045 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4600 mm | 4410 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1630 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1400 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2520 mm |