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 Cavaliers have suffered from build quality issues; subpar materials quality and outdated design were also problems, particularly with later models.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 281 through 290 of 1,309.00-
LS Sedan - 1997 Chevrolet Cavalier
By BrandonK - August 7 - 2:26 pmIve owned my 1997 Cavalier sedan since it was new, over 10 years ago and can honestly say I enjoy the vehicle. The engine still runs great with 178,000 miles. Ive replaced the high beam light, alternator at 110,000 miles, water pump at 165,000 miles, and the power steering hose at 178,000 miles. Ive performed the repairs with my dad, so labor was free, yet the parts only cost about 200.00 total, making the total cost of ownership very reasonable. I drive about 60% highway and usually change the oil every 5,000 miles. The vehicle has consistently averaged 30 MPG at around 40% city and 60% highway. Im also 6 feet tall and think the vehicle has just the right about the leg room.
-
Happy camper, reliable car! - 1998 Chevrolet Cavalier
By Anderson - August 5 - 8:04 pmI am very happy overall with my 1998 Cavalier. It is by far better than my 2002 Malibu which is a piece of junk. I have about 180000 miles on this car and to date I have had to make no major repairs. I dont understand it. Only the Japanese cars are supposed to be like this. The only money I have invested in this car is for basic maintenance and a minor repair to the heater fan switch that quit working. My only real complaint on this car is that it is not that great in winter driving. It might be to light. I live in MN and for a front wheel drive it has poor traction on packed snow even with decent tires. Trax light always comes on. Other than that its been a great car.
-
chevy cavalier - 2004 Chevrolet Cavalier
By chevy4u - July 28 - 2:00 amthe car works..but its not a bmw i get you from point a to b in a comfortable manner. the cd player needs work and the moon roof because ive had it break allready 3 times but everything else works fine
-
I love my car! - 2004 Chevrolet Cavalier
By Absoluteangel04 - July 28 - 2:00 amGreat car! Great on gas! Low Maintance! We have purchased seven chevy cars & trucks in my household in the last 35 years. we never had a problem with any of our cars! We had a 1984 Cavailer for over ten years before deciding to buy a car.
-
the best value - 2004 Chevrolet Cavalier
By Labs - July 28 - 2:00 amawsome handling, great gas milage. very fun to race
-
my cavalier - 2004 Chevrolet Cavalier
By ladymystikal79 - July 28 - 2:00 amI GOT A CAVALIER BECAUSE THEY LOOK GOOD AND THE PRICE IS NICE..WHAT I DIDNT KNOW WAS THEY HAVE HIGH INSURANCE AND IF U HIT SOMETHING (A DEER) U USUALLY TOTAL IT....BUT MY CAR RUNS REALLY GOOD AND HANDELS REALLY NICE JUST BE CAREFULL!!
-
4 cylinder sucks - 2004 Chevrolet Cavalier
By Queen B - July 28 - 2:00 amI replaced 5 head gaskets and 3 water pumps!
-
My car - 2004 Chevrolet Cavalier
By someone - July 28 - 2:00 amIt is very ausome!!!
-
love my car - 2004 Chevrolet Cavalier
By kitens - July 28 - 2:00 amTHIS is the greatest car I have ever owned there is no better car when this one gets old I WILL be getting another one
-
My Car - 2004 Chevrolet Cavalier
By lori burchardt - July 28 - 2:00 amI bought my new cavalier and I think its the greatest little car I have bought. I really love it,I have had other new cars but, this one takes the cake. it really is sporty and has a lot of get up and go for an economy car.
