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 2,392 cc (4 cylinders), 1997 Chevrolet Cavalier is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Chevrolet Cavalier (150 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 12 more horse power than 2012 Hyundai Elantra. (138 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 Chevrolet Cavalier should accelerate faster than 2012 Hyundai Elantra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Hyundai Elantra weights approximately 85 kg more 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 (211 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 27 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Hyundai Elantra. (184 Nm @ 4600 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 | 2392 cc | 2000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 150 HP | 138 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 211 Nm | 184 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4400 RPM | 4600 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 5-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1247 kg | 1332 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4600 mm | 4486 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1765 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1519 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2700 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 57 L | 53 L |
