2004 Chevrolet Cavalier vs. 1996 Mercedes-Benz S

To start off, 2004 Chevrolet Cavalier is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Mercedes-Benz S. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Mercedes-Benz S would be higher. At 5,987 cc (12 cylinders), 1996 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Mercedes-Benz S (389 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 269 more horse power than 2004 Chevrolet Cavalier. (120 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1996 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 2004 Chevrolet Cavalier. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 1025 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 Mercedes-Benz S 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 Mercedes-Benz S. 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 Mercedes-Benz S (570 Nm @ 3800 RPM) has 387 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Chevrolet Cavalier. (183 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 1996 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Chevrolet Cavalier. 1996 Mercedes-Benz S has automatic transmission and 2004 Chevrolet Cavalier has manual transmission. 2004 Chevrolet Cavalier will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1996 Mercedes-Benz S will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

2004 Chevrolet Cavalier 1996 Mercedes-Benz S
Make Chevrolet Mercedes-Benz
Model Cavalier S
Year Released 2004 1996
Body Type Convertible Coupe
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 2190 cc 5987 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 12 cylinders
Engine Type in-line V
Valves per Cylinder 4 valves 4 valves
Horse Power 120 HP 389 HP
Engine RPM 5200 RPM 5200 RPM
Torque 183 Nm 570 Nm
Torque RPM 3600 RPM 3800 RPM
Fuel Type Gasoline Gasoline
Drive Type Front Rear
Transmission Type Manual Automatic
Number of Seats 5 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 4 doors 4 doors
Vehicle Weight 1215 kg 2240 kg
Vehicle Length 4600 mm 5070 mm
Vehicle Width 1750 mm 1920 mm
Vehicle Height 1380 mm 1460 mm
Wheelbase Size 2650 mm 2890 mm