2009 Chevrolet Traverse vs. 1997 Chevrolet Cavalier
To start off, 2009 Chevrolet Traverse 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 3,600 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 Chevrolet Traverse is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Chevrolet Traverse (288 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 173 more horse power than 1997 Chevrolet Cavalier. (115 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Chevrolet Traverse should accelerate faster than 1997 Chevrolet Cavalier. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Chevrolet Traverse weights approximately 349 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.
Because 2009 Chevrolet Traverse is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1997 Chevrolet Cavalier. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 Chevrolet Traverse will offer significantly more control. 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, 2009 Chevrolet Traverse (366 Nm @ 3400 RPM) has 183 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Chevrolet Cavalier. (183 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 2009 Chevrolet Traverse will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Chevrolet Cavalier.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Chevrolet Traverse | 1997 Chevrolet Cavalier | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Chevrolet |
| Model | Traverse | Cavalier |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1997 |
| Body Type | Crossover | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3600 cc | 2190 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 288 HP | 115 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 366 Nm | 183 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3400 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.3:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 7 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1549 kg | 1200 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5210 mm | 4600 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 2000 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1790 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3030 mm | 2650 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 83 L | 57 L |
