1997 Chevrolet Cavalier vs. 2012 Seat Ibiza
To start off, 2012 Seat Ibiza 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 2,189 cc (4 cylinders), 1997 Chevrolet Cavalier is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Seat Ibiza (129 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 9 more horse power than 1997 Chevrolet Cavalier. (120 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Seat Ibiza should accelerate faster than 1997 Chevrolet Cavalier. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Chevrolet Cavalier weights approximately 33 kg more than 2012 Seat Ibiza.
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, 2012 Seat Ibiza (310 Nm @ 1900 RPM) has 127 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Chevrolet Cavalier. (183 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 2012 Seat Ibiza will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Chevrolet Cavalier.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Chevrolet Cavalier | 2012 Seat Ibiza | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Seat |
| Model | Cavalier | Ibiza |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2189 cc | 1896 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 120 HP | 129 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 183 Nm | 310 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 1900 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 89 mm | 79.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 88 mm | 95.5 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 19.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1215 kg | 1182 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4600 mm | 4000 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2470 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 57 L | 45 L |
