1997 Chevrolet Cavalier vs. 2011 Mazda 3
To start off, 2011 Mazda 3 is newer by 14 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, 2011 Mazda 3 (148 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 33 more horse power than 1997 Chevrolet Cavalier. (115 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Mazda 3 should accelerate faster than 1997 Chevrolet Cavalier. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Mazda 3 weights approximately 100 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, both vehicles can yield 183 Nm of torque. So under normal driving conditions, the ability to climb up hills and pull heavy equipment should be relatively similar for both vehicles.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Chevrolet Cavalier | 2011 Mazda 3 | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Mazda |
| Model | Cavalier | 3 |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| 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 | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 115 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 183 Nm | 183 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | 5-speed automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1200 kg | 1300 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4600 mm | 4590 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1755 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1471 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2639 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 57 L | 55 L |
