1997 Chevrolet Cavalier vs. 2001 Volkswagen Polo
To start off, 2001 Volkswagen Polo is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Chevrolet Cavalier. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Chevrolet Cavalier would be higher. At 2,189 cc (4 cylinders), 1997 Chevrolet Cavalier is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Chevrolet Cavalier (120 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 22 more horse power than 2001 Volkswagen Polo. (98 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 Chevrolet Cavalier should accelerate faster than 2001 Volkswagen Polo. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Chevrolet Cavalier weights approximately 50 kg more than 2001 Volkswagen Polo. 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, 2001 Volkswagen Polo (240 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 57 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Chevrolet Cavalier. (183 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 2001 Volkswagen Polo will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Chevrolet Cavalier.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Chevrolet Cavalier | 2001 Volkswagen Polo | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Volkswagen |
| Model | Cavalier | Polo |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2001 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2189 cc | 1895 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 120 HP | 98 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 183 Nm | 240 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 89 mm | 79.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 88 mm | 95.5 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 19.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1215 kg | 1165 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4600 mm | 3900 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1660 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2520 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 57 L | 45 L |
