1997 Chevrolet Cavalier vs. 2006 Volkswagen Jetta
To start off, 2006 Volkswagen Jetta is newer by 9 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 2,190 cc (4 cylinders), 1997 Chevrolet Cavalier is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Volkswagen Jetta (197 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 82 more horse power than 1997 Chevrolet Cavalier. (115 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Volkswagen Jetta should accelerate faster than 1997 Chevrolet Cavalier. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Chevrolet Cavalier weights approximately 26 kg more than 2006 Volkswagen Jetta.
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, 2006 Volkswagen Jetta (280 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 97 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Chevrolet Cavalier. (183 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 2006 Volkswagen Jetta will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Chevrolet Cavalier. 1997 Chevrolet Cavalier has automatic transmission and 2006 Volkswagen Jetta has manual transmission. 2006 Volkswagen Jetta 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 | 2006 Volkswagen Jetta | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Volkswagen |
| Model | Cavalier | Jetta |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2006 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2190 cc | 1984 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 115 HP | 197 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 5100 RPM |
| Torque | 183 Nm | 280 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 89 mm | 82.6 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 88 mm | 92.8 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 10.3:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1188 kg | 1162 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4600 mm | 4560 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2580 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 57 L | 55 L |
