1998 Chevrolet Cavalier vs. 1979 Mazda Montrose
To start off, 1998 Chevrolet Cavalier is newer by 19 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1979 Mazda Montrose. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 Mazda Montrose would be higher. At 2,190 cc (4 cylinders), 1998 Chevrolet Cavalier is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Chevrolet Cavalier (120 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 30 more horse power than 1979 Mazda Montrose. (90 HP @ 4800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 Chevrolet Cavalier should accelerate faster than 1979 Mazda Montrose. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Chevrolet Cavalier weights approximately 121 kg more than 1979 Mazda Montrose. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1979 Mazda Montrose is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 1979 Mazda Montrose. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1998 Chevrolet Cavalier, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. 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, 1998 Chevrolet Cavalier (183 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 30 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Mazda Montrose. (153 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 1998 Chevrolet Cavalier will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Mazda Montrose. 1979 Mazda Montrose has automatic transmission and 1998 Chevrolet Cavalier has manual transmission. 1998 Chevrolet Cavalier will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1979 Mazda Montrose will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Chevrolet Cavalier | 1979 Mazda Montrose | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Mazda |
| Model | Cavalier | Montrose |
| Year Released | 1998 | 1979 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2190 cc | 1968 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 120 HP | 90 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Torque | 183 Nm | 153 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 89.1 mm | 80 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 88 mm | 98 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 8.6:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1191 kg | 1070 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4600 mm | 4310 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1670 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1380 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 2520 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 57 L | 55 L |
