1997 Mazda 626 vs. 2008 Chevrolet Cobalt
To start off, 2008 Chevrolet Cobalt is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Mazda 626. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Mazda 626 would be higher. At 2,199 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Chevrolet Cobalt is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Chevrolet Cobalt (148 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 59 more horse power than 1997 Mazda 626. (89 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Chevrolet Cobalt should accelerate faster than 1997 Mazda 626. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Chevrolet Cobalt weights approximately 230 kg more than 1997 Mazda 626. 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, 2008 Chevrolet Cobalt (206 Nm @ 4200 RPM) has 61 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Mazda 626. (145 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2008 Chevrolet Cobalt will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Mazda 626.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Mazda 626 | 2008 Chevrolet Cobalt | |
| Make | Mazda | Chevrolet |
| Model | 626 | Cobalt |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1840 cc | 2199 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 89 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 145 Nm | 206 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1190 kg | 1420 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4700 mm | 4590 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2630 mm |
