2004 Ford Focus vs. 1996 Chevrolet Cavalier
To start off, 2004 Ford Focus is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Chevrolet Cavalier. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Chevrolet Cavalier would be higher. At 2,190 cc (4 cylinders), 1996 Chevrolet Cavalier is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Ford Focus (131 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 11 more horse power than 1996 Chevrolet Cavalier. (120 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Ford Focus should accelerate faster than 1996 Chevrolet Cavalier. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Chevrolet Cavalier weights approximately 30 kg more than 2004 Ford Focus.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. 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 Cavalier (183 Nm) has 8 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Ford Focus. (175 Nm). This means 1996 Chevrolet Cavalier will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Ford Focus.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Ford Focus | 1996 Chevrolet Cavalier | |
| Make | Ford | Chevrolet |
| Model | Focus | Cavalier |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1996 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1991 cc | 2190 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 131 HP | 120 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 175 Nm | 183 Nm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.6:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1185 kg | 1215 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4280 mm | 4600 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1380 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2650 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 50 L | 57 L |
