1997 Chevrolet Cavalier vs. 1996 Ford Escort
To start off, 1997 Chevrolet Cavalier is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Ford Escort. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Ford Escort 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 (120 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 46 more horse power than 1996 Ford Escort. (74 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 Chevrolet Cavalier should accelerate faster than 1996 Ford Escort. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Chevrolet Cavalier weights approximately 24 kg more than 1996 Ford Escort. 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, 1997 Chevrolet Cavalier (183 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 69 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Ford Escort. (114 Nm @ 2750 RPM). This means 1997 Chevrolet Cavalier will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Ford Escort.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Chevrolet Cavalier | 1996 Ford Escort | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Ford |
| Model | Cavalier | Escort |
| Year Released | 1997 | 1996 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2190 cc | 1389 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 120 HP | 74 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 183 Nm | 114 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 2750 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1194 kg | 1170 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4600 mm | 4140 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1400 mm |
