2006 Chevrolet SSR vs. 2002 Chevrolet Cavalier

To start off, 2006 Chevrolet SSR is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2002 Chevrolet Cavalier. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2002 Chevrolet Cavalier would be higher. At 5,965 cc (8 cylinders), 2006 Chevrolet SSR is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Chevrolet SSR (401 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 280 more horse power than 2002 Chevrolet Cavalier. (121 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Chevrolet SSR should accelerate faster than 2002 Chevrolet Cavalier. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Chevrolet Cavalier weights approximately 137 kg more than 2006 Chevrolet SSR.

Because 2006 Chevrolet SSR 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 2006 Chevrolet SSR. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2002 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, 2006 Chevrolet SSR (542 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 366 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Chevrolet Cavalier. (176 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 2006 Chevrolet SSR will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 Chevrolet Cavalier. 2002 Chevrolet Cavalier has automatic transmission and 2006 Chevrolet SSR has manual transmission. 2006 Chevrolet SSR will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2002 Chevrolet Cavalier will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

2006 Chevrolet SSR 2002 Chevrolet Cavalier
Make Chevrolet Chevrolet
Model SSR Cavalier
Year Released 2006 2002
Body Type Pickup Convertible
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 5965 cc 2190 cc
Engine Cylinders 8 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type V in-line
Valves per Cylinder 2 valves 4 valves
Horse Power 401 HP 121 HP
Engine RPM 6000 RPM 5200 RPM
Torque 542 Nm 176 Nm
Torque RPM 4000 RPM 3600 RPM
Engine Bore Size 101.6 mm 89 mm
Engine Stroke Size 91.4 mm 88 mm
Engine Compression Ratio 10.9:1 9.0:1
Drive Type Rear Front
Transmission Type Manual Automatic
Number of Seats 2 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 2 doors 4 doors
Vehicle Weight 1078 kg 1215 kg
Vehicle Length 4870 mm 4600 mm
Vehicle Width 2000 mm 1750 mm
Vehicle Height 1630 mm 1380 mm
Wheelbase Size 2950 mm 2650 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity 95 L 57 L