2006 Chevrolet Cobalt vs. 1984 Pontiac Firebird
To start off, 2006 Chevrolet Cobalt is newer by 22 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1984 Pontiac Firebird. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1984 Pontiac Firebird would be higher. At 2,827 cc (6 cylinders), 1984 Pontiac Firebird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Chevrolet Cobalt (143 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 10 more horse power than 1984 Pontiac Firebird. (133 HP @ 5100 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Chevrolet Cobalt should accelerate faster than 1984 Pontiac Firebird.
Because 1984 Pontiac Firebird 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 1984 Pontiac Firebird. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2006 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, 1984 Pontiac Firebird (223 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 13 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Chevrolet Cobalt. (210 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1984 Pontiac Firebird will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Chevrolet Cobalt.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Chevrolet Cobalt | 1984 Pontiac Firebird | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Pontiac |
| Model | Cobalt | Firebird |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1984 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2189 cc | 2827 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 143 HP | 133 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5100 RPM |
| Torque | 210 Nm | 223 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86.1 mm | 88.9 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 94.5 mm | 75.9 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 8.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4590 mm | 4880 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1380 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2630 mm | 2580 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 117 L | 60 L |
