2009 Chevrolet Equinox vs. 1997 Chevrolet Cavalier
To start off, 2009 Chevrolet Equinox is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Chevrolet Cavalier. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Chevrolet Cavalier would be higher. At 3,349 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 Chevrolet Equinox is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Chevrolet Equinox (182 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 32 more horse power than 1997 Chevrolet Cavalier. (150 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Chevrolet Equinox should accelerate faster than 1997 Chevrolet Cavalier. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Chevrolet Equinox weights approximately 954 kg more than 1997 Chevrolet Cavalier. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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, both vehicles can yield 210 Nm of torque. So under normal driving conditions, the ability to climb up hills and pull heavy equipment should be relatively similar for both vehicles.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Chevrolet Equinox | 1997 Chevrolet Cavalier | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Chevrolet |
| Model | Equinox | Cavalier |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1997 |
| Body Type | SUV | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3349 cc | 2391 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 182 HP | 150 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 210 Nm | 210 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3800 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 92 mm | 90 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 84 mm | 94 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 2141 kg | 1187 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4800 mm | 4600 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1710 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2860 mm | 2650 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 76 L | 57 L |
