2003 Chevrolet Cavalier vs. 2008 Volkswagen GLI
To start off, 2008 Volkswagen GLI is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Chevrolet Cavalier. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Chevrolet Cavalier would be higher. At 2,189 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 Chevrolet Cavalier is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Volkswagen GLI (200 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 80 more horse power than 2003 Chevrolet Cavalier. (120 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Volkswagen GLI should accelerate faster than 2003 Chevrolet Cavalier. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Volkswagen GLI weights approximately 49 kg more than 2003 Chevrolet Cavalier. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2008 Volkswagen GLI 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, 2008 Volkswagen GLI 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, 2008 Volkswagen GLI (281 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 105 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Chevrolet Cavalier. (176 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 2008 Volkswagen GLI will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Chevrolet Cavalier.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Chevrolet Cavalier | 2008 Volkswagen GLI | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Volkswagen |
| Model | Cavalier | GLI |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2008 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2189 cc | 1984 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 120 HP | 200 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 5100 RPM |
| Torque | 176 Nm | 281 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1187 kg | 1236 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4600 mm | 4560 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1360 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2810 mm | 2580 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 14.7 L/100km | 9.8 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 56 L | 55 L |
