1989 Volvo 240 vs. 2010 Chevrolet Cobalt
To start off, 2010 Chevrolet Cobalt is newer by 21 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1989 Volvo 240. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1989 Volvo 240 would be higher. At 1,999 cc (4 cylinders), 2010 Chevrolet Cobalt is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2010 Chevrolet Cobalt (261 HP @ 5300 RPM) has 146 more horse power than 1989 Volvo 240. (115 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2010 Chevrolet Cobalt should accelerate faster than 1989 Volvo 240. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1989 Volvo 240 weights approximately 29 kg more than 2010 Chevrolet Cobalt.
Because 1989 Volvo 240 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 1989 Volvo 240. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2010 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, 2010 Chevrolet Cobalt (353 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 196 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Volvo 240. (157 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2010 Chevrolet Cobalt will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Volvo 240.
Compare all specifications:
| 1989 Volvo 240 | 2010 Chevrolet Cobalt | |
| Make | Volvo | Chevrolet |
| Model | 240 | Cobalt |
| Year Released | 1989 | 2010 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1986 cc | 1999 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 115 HP | 261 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5300 RPM |
| Torque | 157 Nm | 353 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1290 kg | 1261 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4790 mm | 4590 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2660 mm | 2630 mm |
