2004 Chevrolet Cavalier vs. 1981 Ford Mustang
To start off, 2004 Chevrolet Cavalier is newer by 23 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Ford Mustang. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Ford Mustang would be higher. At 4,942 cc (8 cylinders), 1981 Ford Mustang is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1981 Ford Mustang (173 HP @ 3800 RPM) has 33 more horse power than 2004 Chevrolet Cavalier. (140 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1981 Ford Mustang should accelerate faster than 2004 Chevrolet Cavalier. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1981 Ford Mustang weights approximately 141 kg more than 2004 Chevrolet Cavalier. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1981 Ford Mustang 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 1981 Ford Mustang. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 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, 1981 Ford Mustang (332 Nm) has 129 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Chevrolet Cavalier. (203 Nm). This means 1981 Ford Mustang will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Chevrolet Cavalier.
Compare all specifications:
2004 Chevrolet Cavalier | 1981 Ford Mustang | |
Make | Chevrolet | Ford |
Model | Cavalier | Mustang |
Year Released | 2004 | 1981 |
Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2195 cc | 4942 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | V |
Horse Power | 140 HP | 173 HP |
Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 3800 RPM |
Torque | 203 Nm | 332 Nm |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1214 kg | 1355 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4600 mm | 4560 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1720 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1320 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2560 mm |