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 Cavaliers have suffered from build quality issues; subpar materials quality and outdated design were also problems, particularly with later models.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:
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Almost 10 Years Old and Heads Still Turn - 1997 Chevrolet Cavalier
By Debbie Moreno - July 3 - 10:06 amIve had this car for almost 10 years and it still runs great and looks great! People always ask me.."What kind of car is that","Who makes it","Thats a nice looking car",etc.I have nothing but great things to say about it and other people do as well. Passengers cant believe how quick it goes from 0 to 40,50,60mph. Great on gas! So much fun to drive! Put the top down and everyone is checking it out! Also,Ive had the car for almost 10 years. I got in a very bad accident with it(another drivers fault,nothing to do with the car) and I truly believe its safety features saved my life. Air bags worked right on contact,seat belt locked me in place,etc. Not a fender bender! Best purchase I ever made!
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Only Owner - 1999 Chevrolet Cavalier
By April - June 17 - 3:50 pmLowest end model--no electric windows. 5 speed still spunky for its age, can do 320 miles on full tank, a plus when gas prices soared. Normal maintenance is done on time keeping it going. Never had issues with trans or motor. Parts are breaking down in past 3 years which is inevatable; abs, A/C, wheel alignment, cluster, front end suspension but willing to replace cause its been good to me. I wish it wasnt discontinued.
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Unbelieveable Car - 1994 Chevrolet Cavalier
By this car rocks - June 11 - 10:10 pmI bought my Z24 new in 1994 with only 3,000 miles, and besides regular maintence, have not touched it yet. I drove it till my daughter got her liscence and then gave it to her. Its still rust free, runs strong, and is the fastest car in the family. Great handling at high speeds, and fun to drive no matter what. Handles unbelieveably in the snow. Better than my four wheel drive SUV. All in all, its a great car.
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Super Reliable - 1991 Chevrolet Cavalier
By AMF - May 29 - 6:13 pmI ordered this car in late 90. I had problems with hub bearing, starter and heater core much later in life. Changed oil every 3K with 0W-30 year round. Engine never leaked or burned any oil. Motor ran strong up to 120,000 miles when I sold it to friend. Last I heard it was still running and owner was impressed with performance. The car was driven hard at times but just kept on going. If you can find one that has been well maintained I would say it is a good bet. It was the first new car I ever owned so I felt the fluid changes were important. With high miles the motor ran like new and didnt miss a beat. Original muffler and cat converter replaced at 112K. Check oil change records!
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Best car for the money - 2005 Chevrolet Cavalier
By jake c - May 15 - 8:41 amI purchased my Cavalier about 14 months ago and already have 55,000 miles on it. It has been a great car so far. Most powerful 4 cyl I have ever driven, with better fuel economy than any I have driven. The seats are quite comfy, great stereo system. Doesnt handle great on curvy roads, but its not a sports car. But so far it has been maintenance free. Highly recommended for the price
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Very dependable, fun to drive - 1999 Chevrolet Cavalier
By jolene putnam - May 7 - 12:55 pmI bought this car only because it has a moonroof. I had a 00 Cavalier 4dr and sold it for this one. This car has been very dependable for the daily communite as well as weekend get aways. The only complaint I have is the lack of space in the back for the kids. Luckily they get along pretty good.
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Chevy Z24 Convertible - 2000 Chevrolet Cavalier
By Marcella Carothers - April 18 - 7:35 pmI purchased this car new. It has always been very reliable. It is a sharp looking car with white striping and tinted windows. It is a lot of fun to drive and I always have envious compliments wherever I go. I have had several new cars in my life and this is the one I liked the most.
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Cavalier - 2003 Chevrolet Cavalier
By Unichrom - April 7 - 2:00 amGood Car. GM got it right this time.
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American tough - 1996 Chevrolet Cavalier
By IDLE13 - March 21 - 10:08 amI bought this car a few months ago cheap! Its been super reliable and gets great gas mileage. Perfect for someone on a tight buget or someone looking to mod a car. With its OHV engine it produce good steady power.
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You Will Love This Car! - 2004 Chevrolet Cavalier
By Voyager20 - March 21 - 10:00 amDespite what the experts say, this car is a beauty to drive! I have currently a 1993 Cavalier and had a 1997, my new 2004 has as much pep as my 1993 and upgraded on the 1997. The Ecotec engine is smooth and surprisingly powerful and doenst sound like its straining when you step on the accelerator. The transmission shifts effortlessly and doesnt have the "spongey" feel like on the 1997 model. The brakes are firm and need little effort for braking. Plus it handles amazingly well and is very nimble on the highway not to mention the nice fuel economy especially with the oil companies inflated rates. In short I LOVE THIS CAR!!!!
