1981 BMW 520 vs. 2009 Chevrolet Cobalt
To start off, 2009 Chevrolet Cobalt is newer by 28 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 BMW 520. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 BMW 520 would be higher. At 2,198 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Chevrolet Cobalt is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Chevrolet Cobalt (153 HP @ 6100 RPM) has 30 more horse power than 1981 BMW 520. (123 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Chevrolet Cobalt should accelerate faster than 1981 BMW 520. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Chevrolet Cobalt weights approximately 41 kg more than 1981 BMW 520. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1981 BMW 520 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 1981 BMW 520. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 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, 1981 BMW 520 (170 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 20 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Chevrolet Cobalt. (150 Nm @ 4900 RPM). This means 1981 BMW 520 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Chevrolet Cobalt.
Compare all specifications:
1981 BMW 520 | 2009 Chevrolet Cobalt | |
Make | BMW | Chevrolet |
Model | 520 | Cobalt |
Year Released | 1981 | 2009 |
Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1991 cc | 2198 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 123 HP | 153 HP |
Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 6100 RPM |
Torque | 170 Nm | 150 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4900 RPM |
Engine Compression Ratio | 9.8:1 | 10.0:1 |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1220 kg | 1261 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4630 mm | 4590 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1730 mm |