1997 Chevrolet Cavalier vs. 1988 Holden Commodore
To start off, 1997 Chevrolet Cavalier is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 Holden Commodore. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 Holden Commodore would be higher. At 5,044 cc (8 cylinders), 1988 Holden Commodore is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1988 Holden Commodore (164 HP @ 4400 RPM) has 49 more horse power than 1997 Chevrolet Cavalier. (115 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1988 Holden Commodore should accelerate faster than 1997 Chevrolet Cavalier. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1988 Holden Commodore weights approximately 192 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 1988 Holden Commodore 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 1988 Holden Commodore. 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, 1988 Holden Commodore (324 Nm @ 3200 RPM) has 141 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Chevrolet Cavalier. (183 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 1988 Holden Commodore will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Chevrolet Cavalier. 1997 Chevrolet Cavalier has automatic transmission and 1988 Holden Commodore has manual transmission. 1988 Holden Commodore 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 | 1988 Holden Commodore | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Holden |
| Model | Cavalier | Commodore |
| Year Released | 1997 | 1988 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2190 cc | 5044 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 115 HP | 164 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Torque | 183 Nm | 324 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1188 kg | 1380 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4600 mm | 4860 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2740 mm |
