1997 Chevrolet Cavalier vs. 2012 Volkswagen GTD
To start off, 2012 Volkswagen GTD 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 2,391 cc (4 cylinders), 1997 Chevrolet Cavalier is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Volkswagen GTD (168 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 18 more horse power than 1997 Chevrolet Cavalier. (150 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Volkswagen GTD should accelerate faster than 1997 Chevrolet Cavalier. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Volkswagen GTD weights approximately 222 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, 2012 Volkswagen GTD (350 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 140 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Chevrolet Cavalier. (210 Nm @ 4400 RPM). This means 2012 Volkswagen GTD 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 Volkswagen GTD has manual transmission. 2012 Volkswagen GTD 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 Volkswagen GTD | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Volkswagen |
| Model | Cavalier | GTD |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2391 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 | 168 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 210 Nm | 350 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4400 RPM | 1750 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | 6-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1187 kg | 1409 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4600 mm | 4213 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1786 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1501 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2578 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 57 L | 55 L |
