1997 Chevrolet Cavalier vs. 1991 Chevrolet Nova
To start off, 1997 Chevrolet Cavalier is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1991 Chevrolet Nova. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1991 Chevrolet Nova would be higher. At 5,025 cc (8 cylinders), 1991 Chevrolet Nova is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1991 Chevrolet Nova (200 HP @ 4600 RPM) has 85 more horse power than 1997 Chevrolet Cavalier. (115 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1991 Chevrolet Nova should accelerate faster than 1997 Chevrolet Cavalier. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1991 Chevrolet Nova weights approximately 238 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 1991 Chevrolet Nova 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 1991 Chevrolet Nova. 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, 1991 Chevrolet Nova (407 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 224 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Chevrolet Cavalier. (183 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 1991 Chevrolet Nova will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Chevrolet Cavalier. 1997 Chevrolet Cavalier has automatic transmission and 1991 Chevrolet Nova has manual transmission. 1991 Chevrolet Nova 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 | 1991 Chevrolet Nova | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Chevrolet |
| Model | Cavalier | Nova |
| Year Released | 1997 | 1991 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2190 cc | 5025 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 115 HP | 200 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 4600 RPM |
| Torque | 183 Nm | 407 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 89 mm | 98.4 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 88 mm | 82.5 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1200 kg | 1438 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4600 mm | 4820 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1850 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1340 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2830 mm |
