2003 Chevrolet Cavalier vs. 1997 Nissan Sentra
To start off, 2003 Chevrolet Cavalier is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Nissan Sentra. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Nissan Sentra 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 35 more horse power than 1997 Nissan Sentra. (85 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Chevrolet Cavalier should accelerate faster than 1997 Nissan Sentra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Chevrolet Cavalier weights approximately 221 kg more than 1997 Nissan Sentra. 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 58 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Nissan Sentra. (118 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2003 Chevrolet Cavalier will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Nissan Sentra.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Chevrolet Cavalier | 1997 Nissan Sentra | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Nissan |
| Model | Cavalier | Sentra |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1997 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2189 cc | 1392 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 120 HP | 85 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 176 Nm | 118 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| 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 | 966 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4600 mm | 4290 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1680 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1360 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2810 mm | 2440 mm |
