How much did a Chevy Cavalier cost in 1999?
In 1999, the Chevrolet Cavalier was typically priced from about $10,000 for the base model to roughly $16,000 for the sportier Z24, before taxes and dealer fees. Regional variations and optional equipment could nudge those figures higher or lower.
To understand what drove those numbers, this article breaks down the price points by trim, explains what influenced the differences, and places the Cavalier’s pricing in the context of the late-1990s compact-car market.
Pricing snapshot by trim
The following figures reflect typical U.S. sticker prices for 1999 Cavalier trims, before destination charges and taxes. Actual prices at a dealership could vary by region and incentives.
- Base Cavalier: approximately $10,000 (MSRP) for the standard two-door or four-door with the base 2.2-liter engine and the available automatic or manual transmission.
- LS: around $12,500 (MSRP), adding features such as upgraded interior trim and convenience options, with the same engine choices.
- Z24: around $15,500–$16,000 (MSRP), the sportier model with enhanced styling, a more powerful engine option, and performance-oriented features.
These figures illustrate the general ladder of pricing within the Cavalier lineup for that model year, with the Z24 commanding a premium for sport styling and added equipment.
What affected price in 1999
Several factors shaped how much a Cavalier cost new in 1999. Buyers could see price differences based on drive train, body style, and equipment packages.
- Engine and transmission options: The base 2.2-liter engine and available transmissions vs. any upgraded powertrain available on sport models.
- Body style: Two-door coupes versus four-door sedans typically carried different MSRPs.
- Options and packages: Air conditioning, power accessories, CD players, anti-lock brakes, and premium audio could push the price up.
- Regional pricing and incentives: Dealer-specific discounts, regional promotions, and destination charges affected the final sticker price.
Across trims, these factors combined to produce the price spread seen in 1999, with the Z24 giving buyers a sportier option at a higher cost.
Summary
The 1999 Chevrolet Cavalier offered a simple, affordable price ladder: about $10,000 for the base model, around $12,500 for the LS, and roughly $15,500–$16,000 for the Z24. Engine choices, body style, and option packages created most of the variation within that year. As a compact car at the turn of the millennium, the Cavalier sat at the lower end of new-car pricing compared with some rivals, while offering a familiar, budget-friendly option for buyers.
