1985 Ford Escort vs. 2009 Chevrolet Cobalt
To start off, 2009 Chevrolet Cobalt is newer by 24 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1985 Ford Escort. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1985 Ford Escort would be higher. At 2,201 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Chevrolet Cobalt is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Chevrolet Cobalt (156 HP @ 6100 RPM) has 24 more horse power than 1985 Ford Escort. (132 HP @ 5750 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Chevrolet Cobalt should accelerate faster than 1985 Ford Escort. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Chevrolet Cobalt weights approximately 340 kg more than 1985 Ford Escort. 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, 2009 Chevrolet Cobalt (203 Nm @ 4900 RPM) has 23 more torque (in Nm) than 1985 Ford Escort. (180 Nm @ 2750 RPM). This means 2009 Chevrolet Cobalt will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1985 Ford Escort.
Compare all specifications:
| 1985 Ford Escort | 2009 Chevrolet Cobalt | |
| Make | Ford | Chevrolet |
| Model | Escort | Cobalt |
| Year Released | 1985 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1597 cc | 2201 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 132 HP | 156 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5750 RPM | 6100 RPM |
| Torque | 180 Nm | 203 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2750 RPM | 4900 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.2:1 | 9.3:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1080 kg | 1420 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4070 mm | 4590 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1360 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2630 mm |
