1997 Chevrolet Cavalier vs. 2009 Smart ForTwo
To start off, 2009 Smart ForTwo 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 2,391 cc (4 cylinders), 1997 Chevrolet Cavalier is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Chevrolet Cavalier (150 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 67 more horse power than 2009 Smart ForTwo. (83 HP @ 5250 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 Chevrolet Cavalier should accelerate faster than 2009 Smart ForTwo.
Because 2009 Smart ForTwo 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 Smart ForTwo. 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, 1997 Chevrolet Cavalier (210 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 89 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Smart ForTwo. (121 Nm @ 3250 RPM). This means 1997 Chevrolet Cavalier will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Smart ForTwo. 1997 Chevrolet Cavalier has automatic transmission and 2009 Smart ForTwo has manual transmission. 2009 Smart ForTwo 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 Smart ForTwo | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Smart |
| Model | Cavalier | ForTwo |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Rear |
| Engine Size | 2391 cc | 999 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 3 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 150 HP | 83 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5250 RPM |
| Torque | 210 Nm | 121 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4400 RPM | 3250 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 90 mm | 72.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 94 mm | 81.8 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4600 mm | 2700 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1550 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1570 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 1870 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 57 L | 33 L |
