1997 Chevrolet Cavalier vs. 2007 Saleen S7
To start off, 2007 Saleen S7 is newer by 10 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 7,000 cc (8 cylinders), 2007 Saleen S7 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 Saleen S7 (750 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 630 more horse power than 1997 Chevrolet Cavalier. (120 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2007 Saleen S7 should accelerate faster than 1997 Chevrolet Cavalier. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2007 Saleen S7 weights approximately 53 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 2007 Saleen S7 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 2007 Saleen S7. 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, 2007 Saleen S7 (949 Nm @ 4800 RPM) has 766 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Chevrolet Cavalier. (183 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 2007 Saleen S7 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Chevrolet Cavalier.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Chevrolet Cavalier | 2007 Saleen S7 | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Saleen |
| Model | Cavalier | S7 |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2007 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 2190 cc | 7000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 120 HP | 750 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 6300 RPM |
| Torque | 183 Nm | 949 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1194 kg | 1247 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4600 mm | 4755 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1981 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1041 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 2692 mm |
