2005 Chevrolet Cobalt vs. 1996 Volvo 960
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 960. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Volvo 960 would be higher. At 2,472 cc (6 cylinders), 1996 Volvo 960 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Volvo 960 (168 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 23 more horse power than 2005 Chevrolet Cobalt. (145 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1996 Volvo 960 should accelerate faster than 2005 Chevrolet Cobalt. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Volvo 960 weights approximately 80 kg more than 2005 Chevrolet Cobalt. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1996 Volvo 960 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 Volvo 960. 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, 1996 Volvo 960 (233 Nm @ 4550 RPM) has 23 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Chevrolet Cobalt. (210 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1996 Volvo 960 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 960 | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Volvo |
| Model | Cobalt | 960 |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1996 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2196 cc | 2472 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 145 HP | 168 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Torque | 210 Nm | 233 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4550 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1420 kg | 1500 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4590 mm | 4880 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2630 mm | 2780 mm |
