1997 Chevrolet Cavalier vs. 1988 Lancia Thema
To start off, 1997 Chevrolet Cavalier is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 Lancia Thema. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 Lancia Thema would be higher. At 2,190 cc (4 cylinders), 1997 Chevrolet Cavalier is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1988 Lancia Thema (150 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 35 more horse power than 1997 Chevrolet Cavalier. (115 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1988 Lancia Thema should accelerate faster than 1997 Chevrolet Cavalier. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1988 Lancia Thema weights approximately 130 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.
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, 1988 Lancia Thema (184 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 1 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Chevrolet Cavalier. (183 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 1988 Lancia Thema 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 Lancia Thema has manual transmission. 1988 Lancia Thema 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 Lancia Thema | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Lancia |
| Model | Cavalier | Thema |
| Year Released | 1997 | 1988 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2190 cc | 1995 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 115 HP | 150 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 183 Nm | 184 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 89 mm | 84.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 88 mm | 90 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 9.9:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1200 kg | 1330 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4600 mm | 4600 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2670 mm |
