2003 Chevrolet Cavalier vs. 1979 Toyota Corolla
To start off, 2003 Chevrolet Cavalier is newer by 24 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1979 Toyota Corolla. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 Toyota Corolla 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 45 more horse power than 1979 Toyota Corolla. (75 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Chevrolet Cavalier should accelerate faster than 1979 Toyota Corolla. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Chevrolet Cavalier weights approximately 246 kg more than 1979 Toyota Corolla. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1979 Toyota Corolla 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 1979 Toyota Corolla. 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, 2003 Chevrolet Cavalier (176 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 60 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Toyota Corolla. (116 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 2003 Chevrolet Cavalier will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Toyota Corolla.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Chevrolet Cavalier | 1979 Toyota Corolla | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Toyota |
| Model | Cavalier | Corolla |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1979 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2189 cc | 1589 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 120 HP | 75 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 176 Nm | 116 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 89 mm | 85 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 88 mm | 70 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1187 kg | 941 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4600 mm | 4090 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1630 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1360 mm | 1350 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2810 mm | 2410 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 56 L | 50 L |
