Chevrolet
Cavalier
Chrysler
Sebring
Chevrolet Cavalier vs Chrysler Sebring: 2016 Comparison
The short answer
Based on available data, the Chrysler Sebring comes out ahead of the Chevrolet Cavalier on power. Check the specs table and owner sentiment below for the full comparison before deciding between the two. Both are covered by real owner reports on CarWizz.
Specs side by side
What owners say
Cavalier
Overall
Overwhelmingly negative sentiment based on long-term owner experiences. The vehicle is consistently described as unreliable, prone to frequent and varied mechanical failures, and built with low-quality materials. Positive remarks are extremely rare and limited to its historical status as a mass-produced, inexpensive, and simple transportation appliance.
Best version to buy
Insufficient owner data available. No specific trim or model year is recommended.
Known issues
- ⚠Frequent and varied mechanical failures: includes repeated alternator and battery replacements, starter failure, ignition switch faults, ignition coil failures, window motor failures, fuel pump failure, AC compressor failure, engine failur…
- ⚠Electrical system problems: fuses blowing at random, electrical gremlins, faulty fuel gauges (especially below half-tank), sparking ignition switches. Frequency: recurrent.
- ⚠Interior build quality and failures: carpet liner/headliner sagging and falling down, collapsed driver's seat back, generally flimsy interior materials. Frequency: recurrent.
Sebring
Overall
Overwhelmingly negative sentiment across the community. The Sebring is consistently described as one of the worst, most unreliable vehicles ever produced, with frequent mentions of it being a "pile of shit," a "dumpster fire," and the "reigning POS" in the Chrysler lineup. This reputation is attributed to widespread mechanical failures, poor build quality, and a general lack of durability.
Best version to buy
The 1995-2000 coupe variant is identified as the best version. It is noted as being a completely different vehicle: a rebadged Mitsubishi Eclipse with a Mitsubishi-built drivetrain (2.4L I4 or 3.0L V6), which is considered significantly more reliable than the later Chrysler-engineered models.
Known issues
- ⚠Severe engine problems (2.7L V6): notorious for oil sludge, internal failure, and being a "disaster." Frequency: very frequent.
- ⚠General unreliability: described as having constant mechanical issues, leaving owners stranded, and being a "reliability disaster." Frequency: very frequent.
- ⚠Transmission failures: automatic transmissions noted for common problems and complete failure. Frequency: recurrent.
The verdict
The Chrysler Sebring is the better choice for most buyers.
It has more power on its best-equipped version than the Chevrolet Cavalier, based on the data above. If efficiency matters more to you than outright power, the Chevrolet Cavalier is worth a closer look instead.
Explore further
Not sure which one fits you?
Answer a few questions and get a personalized recommendation.
Frequently asked questions
Which is more reliable, the Chevrolet Cavalier or the Chrysler Sebring?
Owner reports show similar reliability sentiment for the Chevrolet Cavalier and the Chrysler Sebring. Check the known issues listed above for specific differences between the two.
Which is better for families, the Chevrolet Cavalier or the Chrysler Sebring?
The Chevrolet Cavalier seats more passengers than the Chrysler Sebring on its catalogued best-equipped version. Body type also differs: the Chevrolet Cavalier is classed as a Sedan, the Chrysler Sebring as a Cabriolet.
Which has better fuel economy, the Chevrolet Cavalier or the Chrysler Sebring?
Fuel consumption data is limited for one or both models. Check the specs table above for the figures available on each catalogued version.
Which is cheaper to maintain, the Chevrolet Cavalier or the Chrysler Sebring?
Exact maintenance costs aren't in our data, but owner reports mention cost-related concerns more often for the Chrysler Sebring than the Chevrolet Cavalier. See the known issues comparison above.