2003 Chevrolet Cavalier vs. 1978 Ford Capri
To start off, 2003 Chevrolet Cavalier is newer by 25 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Ford Capri. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Ford Capri would be higher. At 2,294 cc (6 cylinders), 1978 Ford Capri is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Chevrolet Cavalier (120 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 12 more horse power than 1978 Ford Capri. (108 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Chevrolet Cavalier should accelerate faster than 1978 Ford Capri. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Chevrolet Cavalier weights approximately 99 kg more than 1978 Ford Capri. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1978 Ford Capri 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 1978 Ford Capri. 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, both vehicles can yield 176 Nm of torque. So under normal driving conditions, the ability to climb up hills and pull heavy equipment should be relatively similar for both vehicles.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Chevrolet Cavalier | 1978 Ford Capri | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Ford |
| Model | Cavalier | Capri |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1978 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2190 cc | 2294 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 120 HP | 108 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 176 Nm | 176 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 89.1 mm | 90 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 88 mm | 60.1 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1215 kg | 1116 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4590 mm | 4450 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1330 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2570 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 57 L | 58 L |
