1997 Chevrolet Cavalier vs. 2009 Nissan Sentra
To start off, 2009 Nissan Sentra 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 2,190 cc (4 cylinders), 1997 Chevrolet Cavalier is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Nissan Sentra (138 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 23 more horse power than 1997 Chevrolet Cavalier. (115 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Nissan Sentra should accelerate faster than 1997 Chevrolet Cavalier. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Nissan Sentra weights approximately 129 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.
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 36 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Nissan Sentra. (147 Nm @ 4800 RPM). This means 1997 Chevrolet Cavalier will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Nissan Sentra. 1997 Chevrolet Cavalier has automatic transmission and 2009 Nissan Sentra has manual transmission. 2009 Nissan Sentra 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 Nissan Sentra | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Nissan |
| Model | Cavalier | Sentra |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2190 cc | 1999 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 115 HP | 138 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 5100 RPM |
| Torque | 183 Nm | 147 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 9.7:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1200 kg | 1329 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4600 mm | 4570 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1520 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2690 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 57 L | 55 L |
