1997 Chevrolet Cavalier vs. 2009 Saturn Sky
To start off, 2009 Saturn Sky 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 2,392 cc (4 cylinders), 1997 Chevrolet Cavalier is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Saturn Sky (260 HP @ 5300 RPM) has 110 more horse power than 1997 Chevrolet Cavalier. (150 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Saturn Sky should accelerate faster than 1997 Chevrolet Cavalier. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Saturn Sky weights approximately 97 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 Saturn Sky 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 Saturn Sky. 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 Saturn Sky (353 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 142 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Chevrolet Cavalier. (211 Nm @ 4400 RPM). This means 2009 Saturn Sky will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Chevrolet Cavalier.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Chevrolet Cavalier | 2009 Saturn Sky | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Saturn |
| Model | Cavalier | Sky |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2392 cc | 1998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 150 HP | 260 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5300 RPM |
| Torque | 211 Nm | 353 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4400 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1247 kg | 1344 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4600 mm | 4100 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1280 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2420 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 57 L | 49 L |
