Overview & Reviews
Born in the early '80s, the Chevrolet Cavalier was General Motor's attempt to regain market share that had been lost to Japanese manufacturers who had been the first to recognize the public's need for compact, more fuel-efficient transportation. Though inferior to its competition in most respects, the Cavalier proved to be a hit with consumers, emerging as a consistent sales leader for Chevrolet.
The Cavalier's success was built in large part on the value it offered, though updates were few and far between. The Cavalier was on the market from 1982-2005, and in those 24 years, there were only two generations. Still, despite the fact that many models were built on aged platforms relative to the competition, the Chevrolet Cavalier enjoyed popularity, largely because of its irresistibly low price.
One significant factor to consider when deciding whether a Cavalier is right for you is safety. Throughout its life cycle, the Cavalier has received poor to lukewarm crash test scores. Another is overall quality. Cavaliers have suffered from build quality issues; subpar materials quality and outdated design were also problems, particularly with later models.
Resale value has been low for Cavaliers, making them an extremely affordable option. Still, in light of its shortcomings, we'd recommend that those shopping in this category consider other alternatives, such as later-model Korean imports.
Most Recent Chevrolet Cavalier
The Chevrolet Cavalier's second and most recent generation was built from model-year 1995-2005. Cavaliers built in 1995-2000 were available as sedans, coupes and convertibles, but as of 2001, drop-top versions of this Chevy were dropped from the lineup.
Trim levels varied over this generation's 10-year run. Chevrolet offered base, LS and Z24 trims for the majority of the time but later changed the lineup to just base, LS and LS Sport. The standard features list on base-model Cavaliers included little more than air-conditioning and an AM/FM stereo.
When the second-generation Chevy Cavalier was first unveiled, buyers had a choice of two engines. Base models were motivated by a 2.2-liter, 120-horsepower four-cylinder. Those seeking more power could choose a 2.3-liter four-cylinder engine ("Quad4") good for 150 hp. After just one year, the 2.3-liter was replaced with an updated 2.4-liter version that also made 150 hp.
A new 2.2-liter, DOHC, 16-valve, "Ecotec" four-cylinder engine appeared in the Cavalier for the first time during the 2002 model year. While base Cavaliers continued with the ancient OHV 2.2-liter four and the Z24 still had the 2.4-liter unit, the 140-hp Ecotec was a clear improvement over any previous Cavalier power plant in terms of overall drivability and refinement. The 2.4-liter engine was dropped in 2003.
Although there weren't any redesigns in the final 10 years of the Cavalier's life, the model did see some upgrades. In 1999, the 2.4-liter engine was refined to improve reliability, emissions and fuel economy. And in 2000, the car was given a smoother-shifting manual transmission; its antilock brake system was also improved, and it saw exterior revisions like new body-colored front and rear fascias and new headlights and taillights. The car's exterior was updated once again in 2003, and XM Satellite Radio became available as an option. Audiophiles should know that in 2004, the base-model Cavalier was given an improved stereo, with CD and MP3 playback capability.
One unfortunate Cavalier hallmark is its dated interior. Build quality is subpar and materials quality leaves a lot to be desired. Seats also miss the mark when it comes to comfort. On the plus side, though, later models are available with both OnStar and XM Satellite Radio.
In editorial reviews, the Chevrolet Cavalier was praised for offering acceptable handling and power, and a reasonably compliant ride. Cons included a dated platform and poor crash test scores. In consumer reviews, the car was praised for its fuel economy but panned for its dull interior styling.
Past Chevrolet Cavaliers
The first-generation Chevy Cavalier existed from 1982-'94. Standard features amounted to little more than an AM/FM audio system. A Cavalier wagon was available, in addition to the coupe, sedan and convertible. (The wagon was dropped with the second generation.) There was also the sporty Z24 variant, which debuted in 1986 and offered a spunky V6, a firmer suspension, alloy wheels and obligatory tape graphics.
With such a long spell between redesigns, Cavaliers built in the '90s offered a positively ancient platform compared to the competition. The model did see some tweaks over the years, though. In 1991, the Cavalier received sheet metal revisions. The following year, ABS joined the standard features list, and base engines saw hp increase by 15 to 110. In 1994, base engines saw another horsepower boost, up 10 hp to 120. Air-conditioning, a sunroof and a CD player were all available as options.
Again, resale values on these Chevys are low. Other than bargain-basement prices, though, these older Cavaliers have little to offer.
User Reviews:
Showing 1021 through 1030 of 1,309.00-
Dont Buy a Cavalier - 2002 Chevrolet Cavalier
By cgehlich - April 29 - 2:00 amI have had many problems with my Cavalier. This month alone, I have put over $700 into the car, not including my car payment or insurance. Granted, I drive the car a lot. But, many things continuously go wrong with it that shouldnt (Engine Light goes on, Emergency Brake dont always hold, there is a crack in the dashboard - no one ever since in the passenger seat, so I have no idea how this came out, etc.). Ive done everything to keep the car well-maintained, but nothing seems to be working.
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Mixed thoughts - 1992 Chevrolet Cavalier
By NATO - April 26 - 2:00 amI purchased this car not only for my commute to school but also I thought it would be a nice car to tune up. In the commuting respect it has fulfilled its duty.In regards to its performance, Im disappointed. I understand its not a Porsche but I was expecting it to be quicker than it is. It feels sluggish and I constantly have the feeling that something is holding it back. Even after installing a few performance parts (K&N air filter, etc) it still feels underpowered. If you are looking for a car to tune, dont buy this! If you want a generic, low fun factor commuting car, this is the one for you.
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MINE RUNS GREAT. - 1994 Chevrolet Cavalier
By WALTER WOLOCZYJ - April 22 - 2:00 amEXCEPT FOR THE DASHBOARD LIGHT KNOB, AND THE POWER WINDOW SWITCHES. EVEYTHING IS JUST FINE.
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Hard to get rid off - 1993 Chevrolet Cavalier
By New Chevy Guy - April 21 - 2:00 amThis bad boy has taken me to NY from VA and back about 10 times. It has battle the narrow curvy backroads of VA and has taken on the pot holes and wild taxi drivers in NY. No wonder I need shock work! And most importantly it has never left me on the side of the road. Every time I try to find a reason to sell it I cant. Sincerely, New Chevy Fan 1993 Chevy Cavalier VL 2D
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The Greatest Little Car Ive Ever Owned! - 1997 Chevrolet Cavalier
By Gary M - April 20 - 2:00 amI have nothing but praise for this car. It is fun to drive, has plenty of power, and has been no trouble. Who could ask for anything more?
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why i dislike my Cavalier - 1996 Chevrolet Cavalier
By 311 - April 14 - 2:00 amMy 1996 Cavalier has been a very reliable car, besides that it is a poorly made car. This car is a basic ecnomy car, it will never be anything but an ecnomy car not even the z24 will be more. The horsepower to weight ratio is pretty bad(130HP to 2617lbs) , the Torque (120 ft-lbs) is also pretty bad. The interior of the car is very cheaply made, from the seats to the steering wheel down to the side door panels which always seemed to be crack on every Cavalier. If anyone is thinking of upgrading a Cavalier i would highly disapprove, go out and get a sports car and dont make the same mistake that i did.
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Sporty and Fast - 2002 Chevrolet Cavalier
By mytifyn45 - April 14 - 2:00 amI liked this car from the moment I saw it. I cant complain about the horsepower its quick. Great gas mileage at a time when gas prices are outrageous. Have had no recalls or repairs in 1 1/2 years. Sound system is great.
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Better than a Saturn! - 1991 Chevrolet Cavalier
By Krammer - April 13 - 2:00 amThe Car is 12 years old w/ 230000+ miles on it. Ive replaced heater core (150 bucks). Replaced water pump (20 bucks). Spark plug fell out (200 bucks). Maybe a thermostat (2 bucks). This was a great investment. Z24 brand new was 14,000.
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not too bad - 1997 Chevrolet Cavalier
By thesaviorx6x6x6 - April 8 - 2:00 amthis car is a sturdy, well-built chevy. If taken care of it will hardly ever let you down. Maintainance is very minimal. Though the manual transmission makes it fun to drive, it does lack in power. Sometimes acceleration feels very sluggish. Nevertheless it is a quality car
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Fantastic car for my money. - 2003 Chevrolet Cavalier
By RMcoolX - April 6 - 10:00 amI got this car new (8 mi.) for only $7295 plus a $600 dealer add-on package. No-trade in and no extended warranty. Needless to say, its a FANTASTIC car for the money! Great performance for a 4-cyl. Build quality is lacking a bit, however. Thanks to the manual tranny and strong engine, the car is very fun to drive. Also, the car is surprisingly smooth at highway speed.
