1997 Chevrolet Cavalier vs. 1989 Ford Falcon
To start off, 1997 Chevrolet Cavalier is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1989 Ford Falcon. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1989 Ford Falcon would be higher. At 3,157 cc (6 cylinders), 1989 Ford Falcon is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Chevrolet Cavalier (150 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 30 more horse power than 1989 Ford Falcon. (120 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 Chevrolet Cavalier should accelerate faster than 1989 Ford Falcon. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1989 Ford Falcon weights approximately 173 kg more than 1997 Chevrolet Cavalier.
Because 1989 Ford Falcon 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 1989 Ford Falcon. 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, 1989 Ford Falcon (236 Nm @ 3250 RPM) has 25 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Chevrolet Cavalier. (211 Nm @ 4400 RPM). This means 1989 Ford Falcon will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Chevrolet Cavalier. 1989 Ford Falcon 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. 1989 Ford Falcon will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Chevrolet Cavalier | 1989 Ford Falcon | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Ford |
| Model | Cavalier | Falcon |
| Year Released | 1997 | 1989 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2392 cc | 3157 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 150 HP | 120 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 211 Nm | 236 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4400 RPM | 3250 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1247 kg | 1420 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4600 mm | 4820 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2800 mm |
