1997 Chevrolet Cavalier vs. 2005 Nissan 350Z
To start off, 2005 Nissan 350Z is newer by 8 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 3,491 cc (6 cylinders), 2005 Nissan 350Z is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Nissan 350Z (300 HP @ 3600 RPM) has 150 more horse power than 1997 Chevrolet Cavalier. (150 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Nissan 350Z should accelerate faster than 1997 Chevrolet Cavalier. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Nissan 350Z weights approximately 277 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 2005 Nissan 350Z 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 2005 Nissan 350Z. 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, 2005 Nissan 350Z (372 Nm) has 162 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Chevrolet Cavalier. (210 Nm). This means 2005 Nissan 350Z will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Chevrolet Cavalier.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Chevrolet Cavalier | 2005 Nissan 350Z | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Nissan |
| Model | Cavalier | 350Z |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2005 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2391 cc | 3491 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 150 HP | 300 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Torque | 210 Nm | 372 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 90 mm | 96 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 94 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 10.3:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1187 kg | 1464 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4600 mm | 4310 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1320 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2540 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 57 L | 76 L |
