2002 Chevrolet Cavalier vs. 2011 Chevrolet Impala
To start off, 2011 Chevrolet Impala is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2002 Chevrolet Cavalier. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2002 Chevrolet Cavalier would be higher. At 3,500 cc (6 cylinders), 2011 Chevrolet Impala is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Chevrolet Impala (211 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 91 more horse power than 2002 Chevrolet Cavalier. (120 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Chevrolet Impala should accelerate faster than 2002 Chevrolet Cavalier. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Chevrolet Impala weights approximately 422 kg more than 2002 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, 2011 Chevrolet Impala (293 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 109 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Chevrolet Cavalier. (184 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 2011 Chevrolet Impala will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 Chevrolet Cavalier. 2011 Chevrolet Impala has automatic transmission and 2002 Chevrolet Cavalier has manual transmission. 2002 Chevrolet Cavalier will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2011 Chevrolet Impala will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Chevrolet Cavalier | 2011 Chevrolet Impala | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Chevrolet |
| Model | Cavalier | Impala |
| Year Released | 2002 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2190 cc | 3500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 120 HP | 211 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 184 Nm | 293 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Flex Fuel |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1191 kg | 1613 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4600 mm | 5090 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1852 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1491 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 2807 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 57 L | 64 L |
