Chevrolet Cavalier vs Ford Escort
The Ford Escort is more fuel-efficient at 28 MPG combined, against 26 MPG for the Chevrolet Cavalier. At EPA assumptions that is about $200 less in fuel per year. (Comparison uses each model's most efficient version.)
Side by side
| Chevrolet Cavalier | Ford Escort | |
|---|---|---|
| Complaints (NHTSA) | 751 | 729 |
| Most reported problem | Electrical system | Air bags |
| Crashes and fires | 86 and 33 | 78 and 133 |
| Typical mileage at complaint | 84,000 miles | 80,000 miles |
| Recalls | 7 | 1 |
| Fuel economy, combined | 26 MPG | 28 MPG |
| City and highway | 22 and 33 | 24 and 34 |
| Yearly fuel cost (EPA) | $2,600 | $2,400 |
What the numbers say
NHTSA has 751 complaints for the Chevrolet Cavalier and 729 for the Ford Escort. 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, 1 for the Ford Escort.