Chevrolet Cavalier vs Ford Taurus
The Chevrolet Cavalier is more fuel-efficient at 26 MPG combined, against 21 MPG for the Ford Taurus. At EPA assumptions that is about $600 less in fuel per year. (Comparison uses each model's most efficient version.)
Side by side
| Chevrolet Cavalier | Ford Taurus | |
|---|---|---|
| Complaints (NHTSA) | 751 | 1,003 |
| Most reported problem | Electrical system | Transmission |
| Crashes and fires | 86 and 33 | 73 and 16 |
| Typical mileage at complaint | 84,000 miles | 82,000 miles |
| Recalls | 7 | 3 |
| Fuel economy, combined | 26 MPG | 21 MPG |
| City and highway | 22 and 33 | 18 and 26 |
| Yearly fuel cost (EPA) | $2,600 | $3,200 |
What the numbers say
NHTSA has 751 complaints for the Chevrolet Cavalier and 1,003 for the Ford Taurus. 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, 3 for the Ford Taurus.