2005 Chevrolet Cavalier vs. 1978 Ford Mustang
To start off, 2005 Chevrolet Cavalier is newer by 27 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Ford Mustang. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Ford Mustang would be higher. At 4,941 cc (8 cylinders), 1978 Ford Mustang is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1978 Ford Mustang (138 HP @ 3600 RPM) has 18 more horse power than 2005 Chevrolet Cavalier. (120 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1978 Ford Mustang should accelerate faster than 2005 Chevrolet Cavalier. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1978 Ford Mustang weights approximately 72 kg more than 2005 Chevrolet Cavalier. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1978 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 1978 Ford Mustang. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 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, 1978 Ford Mustang (339 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 163 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Chevrolet Cavalier. (176 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 1978 Ford Mustang will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Chevrolet Cavalier.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Chevrolet Cavalier | 1978 Ford Mustang | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Ford |
| Model | Cavalier | Mustang |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1978 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2190 cc | 4941 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 120 HP | 138 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Torque | 176 Nm | 339 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 89 mm | 101.6 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 88 mm | 76.2 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1218 kg | 1290 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4600 mm | 4560 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1320 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2560 mm |
