2003 Chevrolet Cavalier vs. 1980 Chevrolet Caprice
To start off, 2003 Chevrolet Cavalier is newer by 23 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1980 Chevrolet Caprice. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1980 Chevrolet Caprice would be higher. At 5,736 cc (8 cylinders), 1980 Chevrolet Caprice is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Chevrolet Cavalier (120 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 16 more horse power than 1980 Chevrolet Caprice. (104 HP @ 3200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Chevrolet Cavalier should accelerate faster than 1980 Chevrolet Caprice. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1980 Chevrolet Caprice weights approximately 503 kg more than 2003 Chevrolet Cavalier.
Because 1980 Chevrolet Caprice 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 1980 Chevrolet Caprice. 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, 1980 Chevrolet Caprice (274 Nm @ 1600 RPM) has 98 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Chevrolet Cavalier. (176 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 1980 Chevrolet Caprice will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Chevrolet Cavalier. 1980 Chevrolet Caprice has automatic transmission and 2003 Chevrolet Cavalier has manual transmission. 2003 Chevrolet Cavalier will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1980 Chevrolet Caprice will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Chevrolet Cavalier | 1980 Chevrolet Caprice | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Chevrolet |
| Model | Cavalier | Caprice |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1980 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2189 cc | 5736 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 120 HP | 104 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Torque | 176 Nm | 274 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 1600 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1187 kg | 1690 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4600 mm | 5460 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 2020 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1360 mm | 1480 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2810 mm | 2950 mm |
