The Cavalier Mk3 was launched in August 1988 and was the second generation of Cavalier to be based on General Motors' world conquering front-wheel-drive 'J-body', which underpinned cars as diverse as the Pontiac Sunbird and Daewoo Espero. It had a smoother more rounded style than the Mk2 Cavalier and placed a greater emphasis on occupant safety, (then starting to become an important sales and marketing consideration) which was highlighted in a TV advertising campaign using crash-test cars to a soundtrack of 'Sledgehammer' by Peter Gabriel. The GSI 2000 modelled was a rapid and capable vehicle, its standing quarter mile time of 16.2 seconds being a good indicator of its real-world pace.
Engine: 1998cc 4IL DOHC
Power: 150bhp @ 6000rpm
Maximum speed: 133mph
0–60mph: 7.9secs