2006 Chevrolet Cobalt vs. 1980 Volkswagen Jetta
To start off, 2006 Chevrolet Cobalt is newer by 26 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1980 Volkswagen Jetta. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1980 Volkswagen Jetta would be higher. At 2,376 cc (4 cylinders), 2006 Chevrolet Cobalt is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Chevrolet Cobalt (171 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 118 more horse power than 1980 Volkswagen Jetta. (53 HP @ 4800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Chevrolet Cobalt should accelerate faster than 1980 Volkswagen Jetta. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Chevrolet Cobalt weights approximately 213 kg more than 1980 Volkswagen Jetta. 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, 2006 Chevrolet Cobalt (221 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 121 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Volkswagen Jetta. (100 Nm @ 2300 RPM). This means 2006 Chevrolet Cobalt will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Volkswagen Jetta.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Chevrolet Cobalt | 1980 Volkswagen Jetta | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Volkswagen |
| Model | Cobalt | Jetta |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1980 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2376 cc | 1588 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 171 HP | 53 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Torque | 221 Nm | 100 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 2300 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1078 kg | 865 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4590 mm | 4200 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1640 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2630 mm | 2410 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 49 L | 40 L |
