2003 Chevrolet Cavalier vs. 1983 Ford Tempo
To start off, 2003 Chevrolet Cavalier is newer by 20 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1983 Ford Tempo. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1983 Ford Tempo would be higher. At 2,307 cc (4 cylinders), 1983 Ford Tempo is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Chevrolet Cavalier (120 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 31 more horse power than 1983 Ford Tempo. (89 HP @ 4700 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Chevrolet Cavalier should accelerate faster than 1983 Ford Tempo. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Chevrolet Cavalier weights approximately 77 kg more than 1983 Ford Tempo. 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 6 more torque (in Nm) than 1983 Ford Tempo. (170 Nm @ 2700 RPM). This means 2003 Chevrolet Cavalier will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1983 Ford Tempo. 1983 Ford Tempo 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. 1983 Ford Tempo will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Chevrolet Cavalier | 1983 Ford Tempo | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Ford |
| Model | Cavalier | Tempo |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1983 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2189 cc | 2307 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 120 HP | 89 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 4700 RPM |
| Torque | 176 Nm | 170 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 2700 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 89 mm | 96 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 88 mm | 79.5 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Vehicle Weight | 1187 kg | 1110 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4600 mm | 4480 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1360 mm | 1340 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2810 mm | 2540 mm |
