2004 Chevrolet Cavalier vs. 1996 Chevrolet Caprice
To start off, 2004 Chevrolet Cavalier is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Chevrolet Caprice. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Chevrolet Caprice would be higher. At 4,312 cc (8 cylinders), 1996 Chevrolet Caprice is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Chevrolet Caprice (197 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 57 more horse power than 2004 Chevrolet Cavalier. (140 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1996 Chevrolet Caprice should accelerate faster than 2004 Chevrolet Cavalier. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Chevrolet Caprice weights approximately 843 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 1996 Chevrolet Caprice 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 1996 Chevrolet Caprice. 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, 1996 Chevrolet Caprice (333 Nm) has 130 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Chevrolet Cavalier. (203 Nm). This means 1996 Chevrolet Caprice will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Chevrolet Cavalier.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Chevrolet Cavalier | 1996 Chevrolet Caprice | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Chevrolet |
| Model | Cavalier | Caprice |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1996 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2196 cc | 4312 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 140 HP | 197 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 203 Nm | 333 Nm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1187 kg | 2030 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4600 mm | 5530 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 2030 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1550 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2810 mm | 2950 mm |
