2009 Mazda 3 vs. 1996 Chevrolet Cavalier
To start off, 2009 Mazda 3 is newer by 13 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 2,189 cc (4 cylinders), 1996 Chevrolet Cavalier is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mazda 3 (148 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 28 more horse power than 1996 Chevrolet Cavalier. (120 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mazda 3 should accelerate faster than 1996 Chevrolet Cavalier. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Mazda 3 weights approximately 359 kg more than 1996 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 183 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. 1996 Chevrolet Cavalier has automatic transmission and 2009 Mazda 3 has manual transmission. 2009 Mazda 3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1996 Chevrolet Cavalier will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Mazda 3 | 1996 Chevrolet Cavalier | |
| Make | Mazda | Chevrolet |
| Model | 3 | Cavalier |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1996 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1999 cc | 2189 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 120 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 183 Nm | 183 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1550 kg | 1191 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4510 mm | 4600 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2570 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 8.7 L/100km | 14 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 57 L |
