1978 Volvo 240 vs. 2007 Chevrolet Cobalt
To start off, 2007 Chevrolet Cobalt is newer by 29 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Volvo 240. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Volvo 240 would be higher. At 2,201 cc (4 cylinders), 2007 Chevrolet Cobalt is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 Chevrolet Cobalt (149 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 45 more horse power than 1978 Volvo 240. (104 HP @ 5250 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2007 Chevrolet Cobalt should accelerate faster than 1978 Volvo 240.
Because 1978 Volvo 240 is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 1978 Volvo 240. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2007 Chevrolet Cobalt, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. With that said, do keep in mind that many other factors such as speed and the wear on your tires can also have significant impact on traction and control. Let's talk about torque, 2007 Chevrolet Cobalt (206 Nm @ 4200 RPM) has 46 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Volvo 240. (160 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2007 Chevrolet Cobalt will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Volvo 240.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 Volvo 240 | 2007 Chevrolet Cobalt | |
| Make | Volvo | Chevrolet |
| Model | 240 | Cobalt |
| Year Released | 1978 | 2007 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2127 cc | 2201 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 104 HP | 149 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5250 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 160 Nm | 206 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Length | 4900 mm | 4590 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2630 mm |
