1987 Chevrolet Cavalier

The 1987 Chevrolet Cavalier RS convertible, part of the 1987 Chevrolet Cavalier line.
1987 Cavalier models like this RS convertible
had lighter, more sophisticated engines.

The 1987 Chevrolet Cavalier featured several powertrain revisions as the model entered its fifth season, but little else was new.

Changes to the base 2.0-liter four-cylinder earned it a Generation II label. Modifications included lighter pistons, an aluminum head, and GM's Computer Controlled Coil Ignition, resulting in a two horsepower increase to 90.

The 2.8-liter V-6, made optional in 1986, gained similar enhancements, which boosted horsepower from 120 to 130. The changes also trimmed the installed weight by about 35 pounds. Standard transmission with the four-cylinder engine remained a four-speed manual, with a five-speed manual and three-speed automatic optional.

But the V-6 now offered a five-speed as well -- a new Getrag-designed manual that could cope with the V-6's torque. As before, a three-speed automatic was also available with the V-6.

With four body styles (coupe, sedan, wagon, and convertible) available in up to three trim levels (base, RS, and Z24), Cavalier could boast of offering 13 different models for 1987 -- the most in all of autodom. Yet production dipped significantly, from 432,000 to just over 346,000, bumping Cavalier out of first place in the sales standings.

1987 Chevrolet Cavalier Facts

Model
 Weight range (lbs.)
 Price range (new)
 Number built
Cavalier
 2,300-2,519
 $7,255-$14,106
346,254

The 1987 Chevrolet Cavalier RS wagon, part of the 1987 Chevrolet Cavalier line.
The instrument panel in this Cavalier RS wagon
sited major controls at the driver’s fingertips.

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