1996 Chevrolet Cavalier

The 1996 Chevrolet Cavalier Z24 Coupe, part of the 1996 Chevy Cavalier line.
This Z24 coupe was the 1996 Cavalier's muscle.

The 1996 Chevrolet Cavalier gained a revised double-overhead-cam engine, available traction control, and daytime running lights for this model year. The mid-1995 debut of the Z24 reintroduced GM's Quad 4 engine to Chevrolet, which had previously been used in the sportiest versions of the Beretta. It didn't last long, however, at least not under that name.

A new version called the Twin Cam took its place for 1996, with a bit more displacement (2.4 liters versus 2.3) but the same 150 horsepower. The Twin Cam could be paired with either a five-speed manual transmission or four-speed automatic.

All other Cavaliers came standard with a 120-horsepower 2.2-liter four; that included a base coupe, LS convertible, and base and LS sedans. Base models came standard with a five-speed manual, offering a three-speed automatic as an option.

LS models came standard with a four-speed automatic, though the convertible could also get a five-speed manual if the Twin Cam engine was ordered. A new traction control system was included with the four-speed automatic, and both engines had new 5-year/100,000-mile coolant and 100,000-mile spark plugs.

An anti-theft system was newly standard on all models, as were daytime running lights. A remote keyless entry system was a new option for all Cavaliers except the base sedan.

1996 Chevrolet Cavalier Facts

Model
 Weight range (lbs.)
 Price range (new)
 Number built
Cavalier
 2,617-2,838
 $10,500-$17,500
N/A

The 1996 Chevrolet Cavalier LS Convertible, part of the 1996 Chevy Cavalier line.
At $17, 500, this LS convertible was the priciest
Cavalier for the 1996 model year.

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