1997 Chevrolet Cavalier vs. 2013 Nissan ALTIMA
To start off, 2013 Nissan ALTIMA is newer by 16 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 2,500 cc (4 cylinders), 2013 Nissan ALTIMA is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2013 Nissan ALTIMA (173 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 53 more horse power than 1997 Chevrolet Cavalier. (120 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2013 Nissan ALTIMA should accelerate faster than 1997 Chevrolet Cavalier. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2013 Nissan ALTIMA weights approximately 189 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, 2013 Nissan ALTIMA (244 Nm @ 3900 RPM) has 61 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Chevrolet Cavalier. (183 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 2013 Nissan ALTIMA will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Chevrolet Cavalier.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Chevrolet Cavalier | 2013 Nissan ALTIMA | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Nissan |
| Model | Cavalier | ALTIMA |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2013 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2189 cc | 2500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 120 HP | 173 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 183 Nm | 244 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 3900 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 89 mm | 89 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 88 mm | 100 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | CVT |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1215 kg | 1404 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4600 mm | 4595 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1795 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1421 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2675 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 57 L | 76 L |
