2003 Chevrolet Tahoe vs. 1997 Chevrolet Cavalier
To start off, 2003 Chevrolet Tahoe is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Chevrolet Cavalier. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Chevrolet Cavalier would be higher. At 4,807 cc (8 cylinders), 2003 Chevrolet Tahoe is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Chevrolet Tahoe (260 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 145 more horse power than 1997 Chevrolet Cavalier. (115 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Chevrolet Tahoe should accelerate faster than 1997 Chevrolet Cavalier. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Chevrolet Tahoe weights approximately 1074 kg more than 1997 Chevrolet Cavalier. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2003 Chevrolet Tahoe 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 2003 Chevrolet Tahoe. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1997 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, 2003 Chevrolet Tahoe (393 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 210 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Chevrolet Cavalier. (183 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 2003 Chevrolet Tahoe will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Chevrolet Cavalier.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Chevrolet Tahoe | 1997 Chevrolet Cavalier | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Chevrolet |
| Model | Tahoe | Cavalier |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1997 |
| Body Type | SUV | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4807 cc | 2190 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 260 HP | 115 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 393 Nm | 183 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 96 mm | 89 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 83 mm | 88 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 6 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 2262 kg | 1188 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5060 mm | 4600 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 2010 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1890 mm | 1350 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2950 mm | 2650 mm |
