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 Cavaliers have suffered from build quality issues; subpar materials quality and outdated design were also problems, particularly with later models.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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  An awesome car at a bargain price - 2003 Chevrolet Cavalier
  By Defendar - June 27 - 12:35 am

  This is my third Cavalier. Also owned a 1988 and 2000 Cavalier. I bought this car fully loaded planning to keep it for a long time. Well losing my job forced me to take a job 107 miles away from home. So my daily commute totals 214 miles. At 88,000 miles I just replaced the fuel pump. Im still on my first brakes and tires, even though both probably need to be replaced soon. This car has fantastic low-end torque. You can get yourself in trouble in no time at all, blowing away everything in its class and then some. Considering the cost, this car is a total steal and you can tons of after- market parts to make a look a billion bucks, for less than $20,000 overall cost.

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  Excellent First New Car - 2003 Chevrolet Cavalier
  By Steven Horvat - June 24 - 8:10 pm

  I bought this car new inspite of what my parents have told me for 9,999 and added underbody spray, interior protectent at that time This car used to get 23-25 mpg but after my standered $200 dollars modifications to any car I get My mpg in city driveing went to 30mpg and 28 with the ac on! I have Royal Purple 5w20 engine oil, Royal purple trany oil. K&N stock air filter, Iridium spark plugs, and I pulled out the power robbing bong connected to the air box in the front left fender wall. Dynoed the car too. stock 153hp 156tq after mods: 173hp 180tq. Got a ram air hood too. 20k comming up soon great ride for my first new car.

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  Awesome Car!!! - 1991 Chevrolet Cavalier
  By Tiffany - June 23 - 6:59 pm

  This is my third Cavalier: Ive had an 87 Z-24 (BEST CAR EVER!), 88 wagon, and now a 91 RS Sedan. I have never had any major problems with any of them. These cars are reliable - never afraid to take them anywhere! The radios are awesome with kickin bass! The mileage has been superb and the comfort and styling of the Cavalier is the best!

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  If you can find it, buy it. - 2005 Chevrolet Cavalier
  By Johnny O. - June 20 - 10:20 am

  There are very few of the Special Value Editions left out there, Chevy has already switched production over to the Cobalt. I wouldnt dream of paying $17,000 for a "nice" Cavalier, but at $10,000 I think the SVE is an excellent buy. The engine and transmission are great, the fuel economy is good, and the interior is OK. Sure, the styling isnt that great, but for that price, who cares? If you need a cheap car, and can find a SVE Cavalier, buy it.

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  Reliable Runabout - 1997 Chevrolet Cavalier
  By CJ - June 17 - 9:49 pm

  Bought this car with an extended warranty, shortly thereafter the water pump went. I had regrets buying it, thinking the reliability would be bad. Very few problems since then. The O2 sensor went ($20 to replace). A/C needed a leak fixed, and a small oil leak fixed, all cheap fixes. Few problems for an 8 year old car. Ride and interior leave much to be desired. Lots of squeaks, and very soft ride. Cheap looking inside, and some fragile plastic pieces. Power was fine with the manual tranny. Engine note was quiet, albeit a souless "whir." Gas mileage was very good (33).

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  Good inexpensive car - 2000 Chevrolet Cavalier
  By linban - June 15 - 3:03 am

  I bought this car for a cheap economical commuter car. My uncle has owned 5 Chevy Cavaliers and recommended I buy this used one. His last one had 160,000 miles with no major mechanical issues and was still going strong. I have had no problems with mine. It had 73,000 miles on it when I bought it. I pushed it past 90 mph to see how it would handle, and it ran smooth. Granted there is alot of road noise and you feel like you are sitting close to the ground. But for a cheap little car, it is great.

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  Ive had worse - 1998 Chevrolet Cavalier
  By tcrews - June 8 - 12:16 pm

  My wife had this car when we got married. Weve had to do some motor work (2.4 ltr.), but it has 197,000 miles. What gets me are the comments from mechanics when I take it in. Every mechanic that sees it says, "Oh great!" and tries to pawn it off on one of the other mechanics to work on. They tell me the motors a pain to work on and was known for overheating. I drive it 150 miles a day bare minimum. Still getting 28 miles to the gallon. Very uncomfortable. Best fix for the road and motor noise is a louder stereo. Was going to trade it in for a different car but nobody wanted it.

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  Practical and inexpensive - 2003 Chevrolet Cavalier
  By Hibiscus - June 7 - 5:35 pm

  I purchased this car with 9 miles on it and have put almost 17,000 miles on it since May 2003. It has great mileage, its very reliable and seats our family of five in comfort. Ive had squeaky brakes, but my mechanic says these Cavaliers come with brakes that have a high metallic content. They work fine, but make a funny sound sometimes. This model has had three recalls for small items: a computer chip was reprogrammed, rear lights were replaced and an emissions sticker was added later. This is an inexpensive car thats great to drive and has a terrific sound system. This is the third Cavalier Ive had and theyve all been very reliable since I got my first in 1986. Im very happy with it!

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  Highly recommend the Chevy Cavalier - 2003 Chevrolet Cavalier
  By Stacey - May 27 - 10:34 am

  I owned a Ford Taurus, which was one of my most favorite cars. Three years ago I was run over by a tractor trailer and my car was totaled. Since that time I havent been able to find another vehicle that I really like and Ive had a few. That is until I purchased my Chevy Cavalier. For a little car it rides so smooth and handles real nice. I also love the way it looks. This car has really good pick up and you dont have to worry about getting left behind. This car is one of my favorites.

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  I love my Chevy - 1998 Chevrolet Cavalier
  By Jules - May 25 - 2:24 pm

  I bought my 98 Cavalier brand new, in September of 1998. I have driven this car 124,000+ miles. It has taken me all over the east coast, with no issues. This car is very reliable. I have replaced, tires, brakes, and battery, and just had to get new rear struts 6 months ago. No other repairs have ever been needed other then an occasional factory recall. Right now I have Toyo tires on it, and it drives better then ever. The only complaint that I have is that my family has outgrown it, and I am now looking to buy something bigger.