1997 Chevrolet Cavalier vs. 2009 Volkswagen Polo
To start off, 2009 Volkswagen Polo 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, 1997 Chevrolet Cavalier (120 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 37 more horse power than 2009 Volkswagen Polo. (83 HP @ 5250 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 Chevrolet Cavalier should accelerate faster than 2009 Volkswagen Polo. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Chevrolet Cavalier weights approximately 105 kg more than 2009 Volkswagen Polo. 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 60 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Volkswagen Polo. (123 Nm @ 2750 RPM). This means 1997 Chevrolet Cavalier will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Volkswagen Polo.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Chevrolet Cavalier | 2009 Volkswagen Polo | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Volkswagen |
| Model | Cavalier | Polo |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2190 cc | 1390 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 120 HP | 83 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 5250 RPM |
| Torque | 183 Nm | 123 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 2750 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 89 mm | 75.6 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 88 mm | 76.5 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1194 kg | 1089 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4600 mm | 3920 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1660 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 2470 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 14 L/100km | 6.9 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 57 L | 45 L |
