1997 Chevrolet Cavalier vs. 2008 Mazda 2
To start off, 2008 Mazda 2 is newer by 11 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, 1997 Chevrolet Cavalier (115 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 30 more horse power than 2008 Mazda 2. (85 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 Chevrolet Cavalier should accelerate faster than 2008 Mazda 2. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Chevrolet Cavalier weights approximately 233 kg more than 2008 Mazda 2. 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, 1997 Chevrolet Cavalier (183 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 61 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Mazda 2. (122 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1997 Chevrolet Cavalier will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Mazda 2. 1997 Chevrolet Cavalier has automatic transmission and 2008 Mazda 2 has manual transmission. 2008 Mazda 2 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 | 2008 Mazda 2 | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Mazda |
| Model | Cavalier | 2 |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2190 cc | 1349 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 115 HP | 85 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 183 Nm | 122 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1188 kg | 955 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4600 mm | 3890 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1480 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2500 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 57 L | 43 L |
