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 Cavaliers have suffered from build quality issues; subpar materials quality and outdated design were also problems, particularly with later models.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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Two words: peel out - 1992 Chevrolet Cavalier
By Fwapadalaplap - November 8 - 2:00 amPeople laughed when I staged in my 1992 Z24, but it was a real blast to totally beat them off the line. I purchased it used from an uncle, who never had any problems with it and performed all regular maintenance himself. This car is fun to ride, and its like my miniature sports car... Ill keep dreaming. Its great on the highways (no problems merging or passing, around 27MPG) and idles nice in traffic. The engine sound is a great bonus you dont expect it from this little car.
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Long lasting & inexpensive to own - 1994 Chevrolet Cavalier
By Guano - November 5 - 2:00 amI purchased this car new 8 years ago. It is very reliable and when minor things have broken (Alt.,waterpump,blinker switch)parts are very cheap. Knock on wood, it has never stranded me in 116,000 miles. Take care of these cars and they take care of you. No leaks and doesnt burn oil. My wifes New Beetle has cost more to fix and burns oil w/only 40,000 miles. Very easy to work on. Done all work myself except for Struts. Gaps in body panels are off, structural integrity is wobbley, dash bounces on semi rough roads since day one. If you want a good, cheap to buy and mantain car that will last a long, long time, buy this one!
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dependable - 1997 Chevrolet Cavalier
By Iowaguy - October 29 - 2:00 amcar gets great gas milage , sound system good, heater good , air cond good , peppy get up when needed, looks sharp my car has the traction control great in Iowa winters very reliable .Negative - Seat belt restraint cheap needs replaced , plastic parts cheap had to replace passanger air vent positioner, foam densisty in front seats need to be more firm as it settles and you swing to get out of car the metal seat bracket catches your clothes. overall should be rated at an 7.8
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Reliable Car - 1997 Chevrolet Cavalier
By Sweetpea - October 25 - 2:00 amI bought this car with 53,000 miles in 1999. Since then I have had it in the shop 5 times for the brakes & 3 times for recall parts. But overall Id have to say I made a good choice when I picked this car. It runs great on gas & handles very well. It now has 95,000 and is just starting to get some mechanical problems. I have been looking for a new car & I am geering towards a newer Cavalier. Im going to miss my trusty first car.
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Im running the wheels off!! - 1998 Chevrolet Cavalier
By scottyd - October 24 - 2:00 amI bought this car used and drive it 150 miles round trip everyday and it has not gave me any trouble(knock on wood). Hardly uses oil and gets about 33mpg. I have 130000 miles on it and it just keeps going. I plan on driving it till she wont drive no more.
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You get a little more then you pay for - 2003 Chevrolet Cavalier
By Khris97 - October 17 - 10:00 amAfter rebates and so forth I paid 10K for this brand new car. You definatly get more then you pay for. the 2.2L 140hp engine matted to the manual 5 speed gearbox is great. The car is not a Benz so I wasnt expecting it to be as comfortable as one, but for a small car, its pretty decent. Braking is very smooth and sure. As with just about all American cars, theres a question as to the quality of the fit and finish, but I havent found any blemishes. Nothing rattles or squeeks. Wind noise and engine vibration is minimal. You really do get a lot for 10K.
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92 cavalier - 1992 Chevrolet Cavalier
By Trisor - October 17 - 2:00 amIve put 175K on my 92 cavalier...before selling it to my sister last week. I got 37 MPG city/highway combined. I changed the oil every 4K, replaced the plugs only once at about 100K, and air filter every now and then. And never had any problems. Never had to replace clutch, brakes, anything. No timing belt to replace...has chain. I did have to replace the head gasket at about 75K. Was very reliable.
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Happy Owner - 1997 Chevrolet Cavalier
By Nice plain car - October 15 - 2:00 amI have had this car for 5 and a half years with very few problems. Just the standard tire/brake replacement, and oil changes. The original battery finally died after 5 yrs of use. I did have a few of the interior plastic pieces brake, but nothing detracting. Great car for a younger person.
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Great drive to work car - 1991 Chevrolet Cavalier
By Benji - October 12 - 2:00 amOnly had one mechanical problem w/ the tranny soleniod. Regular maintenance and this car is a very cheap form of transportation. Sporty looking for a 11 year old car. Saves mucho bucks over driving pickup truck to work.
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Perfect for College - 1997 Chevrolet Cavalier
By Polo121518 - October 12 - 2:00 amThis car is perfect for college, great gas miliage, makes a drive a breez, and for not having a lot of money it looks sleek, has peep , I wouldnt recomend the stadard version goes with this one , it just looks sweet
