1997 Chevrolet Cavalier vs. 2010 Hyundai Elantra
To start off, 2010 Hyundai Elantra is newer by 13 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, 2010 Hyundai Elantra (138 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 18 more horse power than 1997 Chevrolet Cavalier. (120 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2010 Hyundai Elantra should accelerate faster than 1997 Chevrolet Cavalier. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2010 Hyundai Elantra weights approximately 138 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, 2010 Hyundai Elantra (184 Nm @ 4600 RPM) has 1 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Chevrolet Cavalier. (183 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 2010 Hyundai Elantra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Chevrolet Cavalier. 2010 Hyundai Elantra has automatic transmission and 1997 Chevrolet Cavalier has manual transmission. 1997 Chevrolet Cavalier will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2010 Hyundai Elantra will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Chevrolet Cavalier | 2010 Hyundai Elantra | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Hyundai |
| Model | Cavalier | Elantra |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2010 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2190 cc | 2000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 120 HP | 138 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 183 Nm | 184 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 4600 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 4-speed automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1194 kg | 1332 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4600 mm | 4486 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1765 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1519 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 2700 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 57 L | 53 L |
