Chevrolet Cavalier vs Ford Contour
The Chevrolet Cavalier is more fuel-efficient at 26 MPG combined, against 25 MPG for the Ford Contour. At EPA assumptions that is about $100 less in fuel per year. (Comparison uses each model's most efficient version.)
Side by side
| Chevrolet Cavalier | Ford Contour | |
|---|---|---|
| Complaints (NHTSA) | 748 | 858 |
| Most reported problem | Engine | Electrical system |
| Crashes and fires | 73 and 10 | 42 and 31 |
| Typical mileage at complaint | 64,000 miles | 90,000 miles |
| Recalls | 7 | 8 |
| Fuel economy, combined | 26 MPG | 25 MPG |
| City and highway | 22 and 33 | 21 and 31 |
| Yearly fuel cost (EPA) | $2,600 | $2,700 |
What the numbers say
NHTSA has 748 complaints for the Chevrolet Cavalier and 858 for the Ford Contour. Complaint counts depend heavily on how many of each vehicle were sold, so a higher count does not by itself mean a less reliable car.
Safety recalls on file: 7 for the Chevrolet Cavalier, 8 for the Ford Contour.