2005 Chevrolet Cobalt vs. 1973 Opel Ascona
To start off, 2005 Chevrolet Cobalt is newer by 32 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1973 Opel Ascona. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1973 Opel Ascona would be higher. At 2,196 cc (4 cylinders), 2005 Chevrolet Cobalt is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Chevrolet Cobalt (145 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 86 more horse power than 1973 Opel Ascona. (59 HP @ 5400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Chevrolet Cobalt should accelerate faster than 1973 Opel Ascona. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Chevrolet Cobalt weights approximately 510 kg more than 1973 Opel Ascona. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1973 Opel Ascona 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 1973 Opel Ascona. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 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, 2005 Chevrolet Cobalt (210 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 120 more torque (in Nm) than 1973 Opel Ascona. (90 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2005 Chevrolet Cobalt will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1973 Opel Ascona.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Chevrolet Cobalt | 1973 Opel Ascona | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Opel |
| Model | Cobalt | Ascona |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1973 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2196 cc | 1196 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 145 HP | 59 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 210 Nm | 90 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86 mm | 79 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 94.6 mm | 61 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1420 kg | 910 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4590 mm | 4140 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1640 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2630 mm | 2440 mm |
