1998 Ford Focus vs. 2010 Chevrolet Cobalt
To start off, 2010 Chevrolet Cobalt is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Ford Focus. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Ford Focus would be higher. At 2,201 cc (4 cylinders), 2010 Chevrolet Cobalt is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2010 Chevrolet Cobalt (156 HP @ 6100 RPM) has 21 more horse power than 1998 Ford Focus. (135 HP @ 5750 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2010 Chevrolet Cobalt should accelerate faster than 1998 Ford Focus. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2010 Chevrolet Cobalt weights approximately 291 kg more than 1998 Ford Focus. 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, 2010 Chevrolet Cobalt (203 Nm @ 4900 RPM) has 41 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Ford Focus. (162 Nm @ 3750 RPM). This means 2010 Chevrolet Cobalt will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Ford Focus.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Ford Focus | 2010 Chevrolet Cobalt | |
| Make | Ford | Chevrolet |
| Model | Focus | Cobalt |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2010 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1795 cc | 2201 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 135 HP | 156 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5750 RPM | 6100 RPM |
| Torque | 162 Nm | 203 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3750 RPM | 4900 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 9.3:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1129 kg | 1420 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4370 mm | 4590 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2630 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 49 L |
