1997 Chevrolet Cavalier Research & Reviews

Overview & Reviews

Average Score

3.93/5 Average
96 Total Reviews
This Year's Model Updates:

The Rally Sport (RS) trim is available for 1997 on the coupe and slotted between base and Z24 editions of the Cavalier. RS trim nets buyers the rear spoiler from the Z24, 15-inch tires, AM/FM stereo, tachometer, interior and exterior trim upgrades and a 3D rear-quarter panel decal. Base coupes have new wheel covers and safety belt guide loops. All 1997 Cavaliers meet federal side-impact standards for the first time. One new interior color and three new exterior colors freshen the lineup.

Pros:
  • Good looks, good value, standard anti-lock brakes, optional traction control
Cons:
  • Buzzy standard 2.2-liter engine, cheap interior materials

User Reviews:

Showing 51 through 60 of 96.00
  • stay away! - 1997 Chevrolet Cavalier
    By -

    after being ripped off in 2001 for $3000 more than the car was even worth, its been one problem after another with this little piece of you- know-what. im considering replacing it with a 12 year old accord with 108,000 miles if that tells you anything. that honda will be a real step up.

  • Dont buy this car. - 1997 Chevrolet Cavalier
    By -

    My mother always said, "you get what you pay for." That is exactly right with this car. The best thing it has going for it is gas mileage. Otherwise, its built to last only a few years. No trade in value, you will end up owing way more than its worth in the long run. Stay away is my opinion.

  • Great car for the cost. - 1997 Chevrolet Cavalier
    By -

    This was the first car I ever purchased, I still love it as much now as I did when I rove it off the lot 7 years ago with only 7 miles on it. The paint is a little weak scratches way to easy. Lot of ratteling in the dash board from the ashtray to the defroster grill to the glove box, thank goodness I have a nice stock stereo system in the car.

  • Mechanical Junk - 1997 Chevrolet Cavalier
    By -

    When you think of the so called horrible American car - this is it. Problem after problem after problem.

  • Not bad for a cheapo! - 1997 Chevrolet Cavalier
    By -

    Bought it with some problems namely a rebuilt title but lady bought it from drove it for about 30K and 2 years so thought not bad plus bought it "cheap!" For a plain jane car it does have a smell of what I call reliability and a proven nameplate. Hey after all what is "transportation" all about?

  • #1 Ragtop Beater - 1997 Chevrolet Cavalier
    By -

    1997 Convertible LS.Bought it new in 05/1998. Rarely in shop. Have spent maybe $1000 in non-warranteed work. A blast to drive. Every day driver. Holds five passengers. (name another american convertible that does that) Huge trunk for a car its size. Have vacationed in it with the wife and 3 kids comfortably.

  • Best Car I Have ever owned - 1997 Chevrolet Cavalier
    By -

    This is by far the best vehicle i have ever owned. I have had a 93 Honda Civic and a 95 jeep Wrangler before the Z24. This thing gets 30 mpg with a mix of highway and city driving, goes 0 - 60 in like 8 seconds, and corners like a mofo. 100mph comes up easily in 5th gear and feels completely stable and in control. Insurance is the same as the 93 Civic for me, a 19 year old male. Had I owned this first, i would have never had the YJ or the Civic. Build quality is flawless in the Z24 except for the paint. Scratches easily. I just want to drive around as much as possible. Its a great car! Looking for a first car? get a Z24, you wont regret it!

  • Great car - 1997 Chevrolet Cavalier
    By -

    I have had this car for about 3 months now. Its been great the only thing I have had to do is get the water pump replaced. other than that this Z-24 has been great. Ive put cold air intake on and it has a really nice deep tone. Ive also put euro style lights on and i must say they look great. At 84K it runs very well. the five speen has alot of nuts for a 4 banger... all around great car

  • Chevy Cavalier LS - 1997 Chevrolet Cavalier
    By -

    Since buying my car used in 97, I have never had a problem w/ this car. Other than the normal maintenance and upkeep, I have not had to replace any other parts.

  • The Heavy Chevy! - 1997 Chevrolet Cavalier
    By -

    The Cavalier has been a really good car for me and my family. It has a sporty look, but is pretty easy on the wallet. Gets great mileage (thanks to the automatic transmission) and has ample power for long time travel. Only problems Ive had, except for routine maintenance, is head gasket replaced around 80,000 miles, water pump replaced at 81,000 miles, car main computer down around 90,000 miles (replaced with used one), and alternator replaced around 95,000 miles. Sounds like a lot, but was very reasonably priced to fix (especially if you know some good "private" mechanics). All in all, not much to ask for a really hard ridden car.

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