1983 Ford Fiesta vs. 2008 Chevrolet Cobalt
To start off, 2008 Chevrolet Cobalt is newer by 25 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1983 Ford Fiesta. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1983 Ford Fiesta would be higher. At 2,199 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Chevrolet Cobalt is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Chevrolet Cobalt (148 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 108 more horse power than 1983 Ford Fiesta. (40 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Chevrolet Cobalt should accelerate faster than 1983 Ford Fiesta. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Chevrolet Cobalt weights approximately 705 kg more than 1983 Ford Fiesta. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. 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, 2008 Chevrolet Cobalt (206 Nm @ 4200 RPM) has 142 more torque (in Nm) than 1983 Ford Fiesta. (64 Nm @ 2700 RPM). This means 2008 Chevrolet Cobalt will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1983 Ford Fiesta.
Compare all specifications:
| 1983 Ford Fiesta | 2008 Chevrolet Cobalt | |
| Make | Ford | Chevrolet |
| Model | Fiesta | Cobalt |
| Year Released | 1983 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 957 cc | 2199 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 40 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 64 Nm | 206 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2700 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.3:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 715 kg | 1420 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3570 mm | 4590 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1570 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2300 mm | 2630 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 34 L | 42 L |
