1987 BMW 316 vs. 2008 Chevrolet Cobalt
To start off, 2008 Chevrolet Cobalt is newer by 21 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1987 BMW 316. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1987 BMW 316 would be higher. At 2,393 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Chevrolet Cobalt is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Chevrolet Cobalt (171 HP) has 85 more horse power than 1987 BMW 316. (86 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Chevrolet Cobalt should accelerate faster than 1987 BMW 316. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Chevrolet Cobalt weights approximately 191 kg more than 1987 BMW 316. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1987 BMW 316 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 1987 BMW 316. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 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, 2008 Chevrolet Cobalt (226 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 103 more torque (in Nm) than 1987 BMW 316. (123 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2008 Chevrolet Cobalt will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1987 BMW 316.
Compare all specifications:
| 1987 BMW 316 | 2008 Chevrolet Cobalt | |
| Make | BMW | Chevrolet |
| Model | 316 | Cobalt |
| Year Released | 1987 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1571 cc | 2393 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 86 HP | 171 HP |
| Torque | 123 Nm | 226 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1070 kg | 1261 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4330 mm | 4590 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1650 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2630 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 49 L |
