2009 Proton Arena vs. 1996 Chevrolet Cavalier
To start off, 2009 Proton Arena 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 2,190 cc (4 cylinders), 1996 Chevrolet Cavalier is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Chevrolet Cavalier (120 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 34 more horse power than 2009 Proton Arena. (86 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1996 Chevrolet Cavalier should accelerate faster than 2009 Proton Arena. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Chevrolet Cavalier weights approximately 180 kg more than 2009 Proton Arena. 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, 1996 Chevrolet Cavalier (183 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 59 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Proton Arena. (124 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1996 Chevrolet Cavalier will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Proton Arena. 1996 Chevrolet Cavalier has automatic transmission and 2009 Proton Arena has manual transmission. 2009 Proton Arena 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 Proton Arena | 1996 Chevrolet Cavalier | |
| Make | Proton | Chevrolet |
| Model | Arena | Cavalier |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1996 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1468 cc | 2190 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 86 HP | 120 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 124 Nm | 183 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.2:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1035 kg | 1215 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4460 mm | 4600 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1500 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1720 mm | 1380 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2610 mm | 2650 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 50 L | 57 L |
