2003 Chevrolet Cavalier vs. 1980 Renault 5
To start off, 2003 Chevrolet Cavalier is newer by 23 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1980 Renault 5. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1980 Renault 5 would be higher. At 2,189 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 Chevrolet Cavalier is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1980 Renault 5 (158 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 38 more horse power than 2003 Chevrolet Cavalier. (120 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1980 Renault 5 should accelerate faster than 2003 Chevrolet Cavalier. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Chevrolet Cavalier weights approximately 217 kg more than 1980 Renault 5.
Because 1980 Renault 5 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 Renault 5. 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 Renault 5 (221 Nm @ 3250 RPM) has 45 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Chevrolet Cavalier. (176 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 1980 Renault 5 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Chevrolet Cavalier.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Chevrolet Cavalier | 1980 Renault 5 | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Renault |
| Model | Cavalier | 5 |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1980 |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 2189 cc | 1397 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 120 HP | 158 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 176 Nm | 221 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 3250 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 89 mm | 76 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 88 mm | 77 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 7.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1187 kg | 970 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4600 mm | 3670 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1360 mm | 1330 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2810 mm | 2590 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 56 L | 51 L |
