2003 Chevrolet Cavalier vs. 1978 Honda Accord
To start off, 2003 Chevrolet Cavalier is newer by 25 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Honda Accord. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Honda Accord would be higher. At 2,189 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 Chevrolet Cavalier is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Chevrolet Cavalier (120 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 40 more horse power than 1978 Honda Accord. (80 HP @ 5300 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Chevrolet Cavalier should accelerate faster than 1978 Honda Accord. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Chevrolet Cavalier weights approximately 251 kg more than 1978 Honda Accord. 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, 2003 Chevrolet Cavalier (176 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 50 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Honda Accord. (126 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2003 Chevrolet Cavalier will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Honda Accord.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Chevrolet Cavalier | 1978 Honda Accord | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Honda |
| Model | Cavalier | Accord |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1978 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2189 cc | 1602 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 120 HP | 80 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 5300 RPM |
| Torque | 176 Nm | 126 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 89 mm | 77 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 88 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 8.4:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1187 kg | 936 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4600 mm | 4350 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1620 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1360 mm | 1370 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2810 mm | 2390 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 56 L | 50 L |
