I only had a few small problems with my cavalier: The trunk was off level, the windshield washer fluid tank leaked, and my alternator went bad at around 80,000 miles. Other than that it was a very dependable little car. I recently rolled it or I would still have it (it was my fault).
My Rally Sport was great on gas and handled really well. I loved the sunroof and all the little extras. The cavalier is a wonderful first car. I'm buying another Cavalier tomorrow to be exact!
I would recommend this car to anyone who wants an extremely reliable car.
These cars are crappy like no other. I have a Rally and it's just plain junk... cooling system problems, over 1000$ in work, and still little to no heat...