1997 Chevrolet Cavalier vs. 2009 Chevrolet Express
To start off, 2009 Chevrolet Express is newer by 12 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 4,300 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 Chevrolet Express is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Chevrolet Express (193 HP @ 4600 RPM) has 78 more horse power than 1997 Chevrolet Cavalier. (115 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Chevrolet Express should accelerate faster than 1997 Chevrolet Cavalier. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Chevrolet Express weights approximately 1197 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 2009 Chevrolet Express 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 2009 Chevrolet Express. 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, 2009 Chevrolet Express (260 Nm @ 2800 RPM) has 77 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Chevrolet Cavalier. (183 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 2009 Chevrolet Express will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Chevrolet Cavalier.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Chevrolet Cavalier | 2009 Chevrolet Express | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Chevrolet |
| Model | Cavalier | Express |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Van |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2190 cc | 4300 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 115 HP | 193 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 4600 RPM |
| Torque | 183 Nm | 260 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 2800 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 9.2:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 8 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1188 kg | 2385 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4600 mm | 5700 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 2020 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 2080 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 3440 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 57 L | 117 L |
