2003 Chevrolet Cavalier vs. 1999 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2003 Chevrolet Cavalier is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1999 Volkswagen Golf. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1999 Volkswagen Golf 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 6 more horse power than 1999 Volkswagen Golf. (114 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Chevrolet Cavalier should accelerate faster than 1999 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 Volkswagen Golf weights approximately 265 kg more than 2003 Chevrolet Cavalier.
Because 1999 Volkswagen Golf is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2003 Chevrolet Cavalier. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1999 Volkswagen Golf will offer significantly more control. 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, 1999 Volkswagen Golf (320 Nm @ 1900 RPM) has 144 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Chevrolet Cavalier. (176 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 1999 Volkswagen Golf will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Chevrolet Cavalier. 1999 Volkswagen Golf 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. 1999 Volkswagen Golf will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Chevrolet Cavalier | 1999 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Volkswagen |
| Model | Cavalier | Golf |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1999 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2189 cc | 1984 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 120 HP | 114 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 176 Nm | 320 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 1900 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 89 mm | 79.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 88 mm | 95.5 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 18.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1187 kg | 1452 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4600 mm | 4400 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1360 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2810 mm | 2410 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 56 L | 62 L |
