1996 Ford Ranger vs. 2009 Chevrolet Cobalt
To start off, 2009 Chevrolet Cobalt is newer by 13 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Ford Ranger. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Ford Ranger would be higher. At 2,507 cc (4 cylinders), 1996 Ford Ranger is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Chevrolet Cobalt (156 HP @ 6100 RPM) has 38 more horse power than 1996 Ford Ranger. (118 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Chevrolet Cobalt should accelerate faster than 1996 Ford Ranger. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Chevrolet Cobalt weights approximately 25 kg more than 1996 Ford Ranger. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1996 Ford Ranger 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 1996 Ford Ranger. 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 (203 Nm @ 4900 RPM) has 5 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Ford Ranger. (198 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2009 Chevrolet Cobalt will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Ford Ranger.
Compare all specifications:
1996 Ford Ranger | 2009 Chevrolet Cobalt | |
Make | Ford | Chevrolet |
Model | Ranger | Cobalt |
Year Released | 1996 | 2009 |
Body Type | Pickup | Sedan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2507 cc | 2201 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 118 HP | 156 HP |
Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 6100 RPM |
Torque | 198 Nm | 203 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 4900 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 1395 kg | 1420 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4770 mm | 4590 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1730 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1650 mm | 1460 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2630 mm |