1981 Mazda Cosmo vs. 2005 Chevrolet Alero

To start off, 2005 Chevrolet Alero is newer by 24 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Mazda Cosmo. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Mazda Cosmo would be higher. At 2,392 cc (4 cylinders), 2005 Chevrolet Alero is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Chevrolet Alero (140 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 38 more horse power than 1981 Mazda Cosmo. (102 HP @ 5300 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Chevrolet Alero should accelerate faster than 1981 Mazda Cosmo. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Chevrolet Alero weights approximately 272 kg more than 1981 Mazda Cosmo. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 1981 Mazda Cosmo 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 Mazda Cosmo. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 Chevrolet Alero, 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, 2005 Chevrolet Alero (199 Nm @ 4200 RPM) has 32 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Mazda Cosmo. (167 Nm @ 3300 RPM). This means 2005 Chevrolet Alero will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Mazda Cosmo. 2005 Chevrolet Alero has automatic transmission and 1981 Mazda Cosmo has manual transmission. 1981 Mazda Cosmo will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2005 Chevrolet Alero will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

1981 Mazda Cosmo 2005 Chevrolet Alero
Make Mazda Chevrolet
Model Cosmo Alero
Year Released 1981 2005
Body Type Coupe Sedan
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 1970 cc 2392 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Valves per Cylinder 2 valves 4 valves
Horse Power 102 HP 140 HP
Engine RPM 5300 RPM 5800 RPM
Torque 167 Nm 199 Nm
Torque RPM 3300 RPM 4200 RPM
Fuel Type Gasoline Gasoline
Drive Type Rear Front
Transmission Type Manual Automatic
Number of Seats 4 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 2 doors 4 doors
Vehicle Weight 1098 kg 1370 kg
Vehicle Length 4670 mm 4750 mm
Vehicle Width 1700 mm 1790 mm
Vehicle Height 1420 mm 1410 mm
Wheelbase Size 2620 mm 2730 mm