1997 Chevrolet Cavalier vs. 2009 Dodge Ram
To start off, 2009 Dodge Ram 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 6,690 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 Dodge Ram is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Dodge Ram (350 HP @ 3013 RPM) has 200 more horse power than 1997 Chevrolet Cavalier. (150 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Dodge Ram should accelerate faster than 1997 Chevrolet Cavalier. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Dodge Ram weights approximately 175 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 Dodge Ram 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 Dodge Ram. 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 Dodge Ram (827 Nm @ 1400 RPM) has 617 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Chevrolet Cavalier. (210 Nm @ 4400 RPM). This means 2009 Dodge Ram will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Chevrolet Cavalier. 1997 Chevrolet Cavalier has automatic transmission and 2009 Dodge Ram has manual transmission. 2009 Dodge Ram 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 | 2009 Dodge Ram | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Dodge |
| Model | Cavalier | Ram |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Pickup |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2391 cc | 6690 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 150 HP | 350 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 3013 RPM |
| Torque | 210 Nm | 827 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4400 RPM | 1400 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 10.3:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 3 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1187 kg | 1362 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4600 mm | 5840 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 2440 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1900 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 3580 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 57 L | 132 L |
