2003 Chevrolet Cavalier vs. 1969 Chevrolet Impala
To start off, 2003 Chevrolet Cavalier is newer by 34 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1969 Chevrolet Impala. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1969 Chevrolet Impala would be higher. At 4,093 cc (6 cylinders), 1969 Chevrolet Impala is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Chevrolet Cavalier (120 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 10 more horse power than 1969 Chevrolet Impala. (110 HP @ 3800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Chevrolet Cavalier should accelerate faster than 1969 Chevrolet Impala. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1969 Chevrolet Impala weights approximately 528 kg more than 2003 Chevrolet Cavalier.
Because 1969 Chevrolet Impala 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 1969 Chevrolet Impala. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 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, 1969 Chevrolet Impala (256 Nm @ 1600 RPM) has 80 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Chevrolet Cavalier. (176 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 1969 Chevrolet Impala will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Chevrolet Cavalier.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Chevrolet Cavalier | 1969 Chevrolet Impala | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Chevrolet |
| Model | Cavalier | Impala |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1969 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2189 cc | 4093 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 120 HP | 110 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Torque | 176 Nm | 256 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 1600 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 89 mm | 98.2 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 88 mm | 89.6 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 8.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1187 kg | 1715 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4600 mm | 5600 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 2030 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1360 mm | 1370 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2810 mm | 3100 mm |
