1997 Chevrolet Cavalier vs. 2012 Hyundai Elantra
To start off, 2012 Hyundai Elantra is newer by 15 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, 2012 Hyundai Elantra (145 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 30 more horse power than 1997 Chevrolet Cavalier. (115 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Hyundai Elantra should accelerate faster than 1997 Chevrolet Cavalier.
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 7 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Hyundai Elantra. (176 Nm @ 4700 RPM). This means 1997 Chevrolet Cavalier will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Hyundai Elantra.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Chevrolet Cavalier | 2012 Hyundai Elantra | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Hyundai |
| Model | Cavalier | Elantra |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2190 cc | 1800 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 115 HP | 145 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 6300 RPM |
| Torque | 183 Nm | 176 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 4700 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | 6-speed shiftable automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4600 mm | 4529 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1775 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1435 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2700 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 57 L | 48 L |
