2002 Chevrolet Corvette vs. 1997 Chevrolet Cavalier
To start off, 2002 Chevrolet Corvette is newer by 5 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 5,664 cc (8 cylinders), 2002 Chevrolet Corvette is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Chevrolet Corvette (405 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 285 more horse power than 1997 Chevrolet Cavalier. (120 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2002 Chevrolet Corvette should accelerate faster than 1997 Chevrolet Cavalier. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Chevrolet Corvette weights approximately 199 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 2002 Chevrolet Corvette 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 2002 Chevrolet Corvette. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1997 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, 2002 Chevrolet Corvette (542 Nm @ 4800 RPM) has 359 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Chevrolet Cavalier. (183 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 2002 Chevrolet Corvette will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Chevrolet Cavalier. 1997 Chevrolet Cavalier has automatic transmission and 2002 Chevrolet Corvette has manual transmission. 2002 Chevrolet Corvette 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:
| 2002 Chevrolet Corvette | 1997 Chevrolet Cavalier | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Chevrolet |
| Model | Corvette | Cavalier |
| Year Released | 2002 | 1997 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5664 cc | 2189 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 405 HP | 120 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 542 Nm | 183 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4800 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 99 mm | 89 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 92 mm | 88 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1414 kg | 1215 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4570 mm | 4600 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1880 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1220 mm | 1380 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2660 mm | 2650 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 57 L |
