2005 Chevrolet Cobalt vs. 1996 Volvo 850
To start off, 2005 Chevrolet Cobalt is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Volvo 850. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Volvo 850 would be higher. At 2,461 cc (5 cylinders), 1996 Volvo 850 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Chevrolet Cobalt (145 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 7 more horse power than 1996 Volvo 850. (138 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Chevrolet Cobalt should accelerate faster than 1996 Volvo 850. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Chevrolet Cobalt weights approximately 2 kg more than 1996 Volvo 850. 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, 1996 Volvo 850 (290 Nm) has 87 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Chevrolet Cobalt. (203 Nm). This means 1996 Volvo 850 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Chevrolet Cobalt.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Chevrolet Cobalt | 1996 Volvo 850 | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Volvo |
| Model | Cobalt | 850 |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1996 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2196 cc | 2461 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 145 HP | 138 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 203 Nm | 290 Nm |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1459 kg | 1457 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4590 mm | 4670 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2690 mm | 2670 mm |
