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 Cavaliers have suffered from build quality issues; subpar materials quality and outdated design were also problems, particularly with later models.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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A balance of performance and economy - 1990 Chevrolet Cavalier
By unknownZ24 - January 5 - 2:00 amMine has 250,000km but runs like new. The compression is still almost perfect,and it starts first go. A little bit of water under the hood, and some body rust, but thats what ontario winters do. Ive had no major problems.
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Sexy little car - 1998 Chevrolet Cavalier
By CarLA98 - December 20 - 2:00 amThe problems I have had with this car are minor. I had a window rattle in the door which the dealership fixed, I had to replace the brakes after 30,000. The sound system is good, but dont try to crank it up too much. The one big problem I have had with this car is the cigarette lighter. For some reason, using it to charge my cell phone caused an electrical short which at various times caused the horn not to work or the roof not to go up or down. By and large I am very happy with this car. I like the way it looks, it can comfortably seat five "normal" sized people, and with the back seat folding down I have a lot of versatility in transporting things.
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Cavalier RS - 1998 Chevrolet Cavalier
By Ecavalier17 - December 16 - 2:00 amGreat car...Kicks the crap out of my friends Impreza 2.5 automatic. haha
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Great Little Car - 1999 Chevrolet Cavalier
By cc732 - December 15 - 2:00 amI was surprised at the quality in this price range. The reliability has been excellant as this car now has 50,000 miles.Ive driven it the last 35,000 with only a minor brake job and tune- up. The 2dr coupe has pleasing looks and could re-sell very well. Its easy to drive and park, vision is not obstructed by side pillars or a high rear deck. A very good winter driver,with standard ABS, too. Im satisfied with this purchase as 2 other Cavaliers(1986 & 1990) didnt do so well. Hope the 2003s are built this standard.
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Chevy Cavalier - 1998 Chevrolet Cavalier
By Blondie - December 14 - 2:00 amThis car is great for a college student it is good on gas and great in the snow
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Fun, reliable Car!!! - 1996 Chevrolet Cavalier
By Ann Krueger - December 10 - 2:00 amNot a bad car at all. I purchased it as a newer car that had some miles on it. I went to the dealership when I was living in downtown Chicago and was going to college full time. I told the salesman that I wanted a reliable, sporty car that was small and had good gas milage that I was able to afford. The first car he showed me was the one I still own to this day and am happy with!
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The Best Car Ever Is A Cavalier Z24 Conv - 1998 Chevrolet Cavalier
By Chris Fontana - November 29 - 2:00 amThe Cavalier Z24 is the best car for the money I have experienced no problems and everyone who says it is bad probably were not taking care of the car or they are bad to their cars all together. The five speed manual transmission is very fast and has great sound. Even with the convertible top down still has a quiet ride. The 2.4L twin cam engine is fast and is great for tuning for an American "Fast And Furiouse" car.
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I love this car! - 1997 Chevrolet Cavalier
By christen - November 25 - 2:00 amI bought my Cavelier 4 years ago, and I love it as much today as i did the day I bought it. It is a great car.
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I love my cavalier!!! - 2001 Chevrolet Cavalier
By LannUNCC - November 22 - 2:00 amI bought my Cavalier brand new,almost 2 years ago and I have not had any problems with it. The main reasons behind me buying a Cavalier is the price, the look, and the quality. The prices is very reasonable, even for a young person like myself. Its a really nice looking car, has a very sporty look...a definite eye catcher for young people. And I couldnt ask for a more dependable car.
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perfect 1st car - 1991 Chevrolet Cavalier
By wagz - November 18 - 2:00 amthis car is so much fun to drive. its got a fun engine which can keep up with any of the newer cars if taken care of. hook up the sound system, put in a cd player, put a nice paint job on it and your set to ride. maybe fix up the engine a little, give it a little more kick, and damn your set.
