1988 BMW 535 vs. 2009 Chevrolet Cobalt
To start off, 2009 Chevrolet Cobalt is newer by 21 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 BMW 535. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 BMW 535 would be higher. At 3,430 cc (6 cylinders), 1988 BMW 535 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Chevrolet Cobalt (260 HP @ 5300 RPM) has 45 more horse power than 1988 BMW 535. (215 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Chevrolet Cobalt should accelerate faster than 1988 BMW 535. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1988 BMW 535 weights approximately 269 kg more than 2009 Chevrolet Cobalt.
Because 1988 BMW 535 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 1988 BMW 535. 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, 2009 Chevrolet Cobalt (353 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 43 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 BMW 535. (310 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2009 Chevrolet Cobalt will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 BMW 535.
Compare all specifications:
| 1988 BMW 535 | 2009 Chevrolet Cobalt | |
| Make | BMW | Chevrolet |
| Model | 535 | Cobalt |
| Year Released | 1988 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3430 cc | 1999 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 215 HP | 260 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 5300 RPM |
| Torque | 310 Nm | 353 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 92 mm | 87.6 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86 mm | 86 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1530 kg | 1261 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4730 mm | 4590 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2630 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 52 L | 49 L |
