1997 Chevrolet Cavalier vs. 2012 Subaru Legacy

To start off, 2012 Subaru Legacy 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 Subaru Legacy (148 HP @ 3600 RPM) has 33 more horse power than 1997 Chevrolet Cavalier. (115 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Subaru Legacy should accelerate faster than 1997 Chevrolet Cavalier. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Subaru Legacy weights approximately 370 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.

Because 2012 Subaru Legacy is all wheel drive (AWD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1997 Chevrolet Cavalier. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 Subaru Legacy will offer significantly more control. 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 Subaru Legacy (350 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 167 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Chevrolet Cavalier. (183 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 2012 Subaru Legacy will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Chevrolet Cavalier. 1997 Chevrolet Cavalier has automatic transmission and 2012 Subaru Legacy has manual transmission. 2012 Subaru Legacy will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1997 Chevrolet Cavalier will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

1997 Chevrolet Cavalier 2012 Subaru Legacy
Make Chevrolet Subaru
Model Cavalier Legacy
Year Released 1997 2012
Body Type Coupe Sedan
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 2190 cc 1998 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type in-line boxer
Horse Power 115 HP 148 HP
Engine RPM 5000 RPM 3600 RPM
Torque 183 Nm 350 Nm
Torque RPM 3600 RPM 1800 RPM
Drive Type Front AWD
Transmission Type Automatic Manual
Number of Seats 5 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 2 doors 4 doors
Vehicle Weight 1188 kg 1558 kg
Vehicle Length 4600 mm 4775 mm
Vehicle Width 1750 mm 1780 mm
Vehicle Height 1350 mm 1535 mm
Wheelbase Size 2650 mm 2750 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity 57 L 65 L