1997 Chevrolet Cavalier vs. 2004 Pontiac GTO
To start off, 2004 Pontiac GTO is newer by 7 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 5,970 cc (8 cylinders), 2004 Pontiac GTO is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Pontiac GTO (400 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 280 more horse power than 1997 Chevrolet Cavalier. (120 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Pontiac GTO should accelerate faster than 1997 Chevrolet Cavalier. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Pontiac GTO weights approximately 505 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 2004 Pontiac GTO 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 2004 Pontiac GTO. 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, 2004 Pontiac GTO (542 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 359 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Chevrolet Cavalier. (183 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 2004 Pontiac GTO will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Chevrolet Cavalier. 2004 Pontiac GTO 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. 2004 Pontiac GTO will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Chevrolet Cavalier | 2004 Pontiac GTO | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Pontiac |
| Model | Cavalier | GTO |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2189 cc | 5970 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 120 HP | 400 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 183 Nm | 542 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 10.9:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1215 kg | 1720 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4600 mm | 4830 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1850 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2880 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 57 L | 70 L |
