2006 Chevrolet Cobalt vs. 1985 Ford Tempo

To start off, 2006 Chevrolet Cobalt is newer by 21 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1985 Ford Tempo. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1985 Ford Tempo would be higher. At 2,307 cc (4 cylinders), 1985 Ford Tempo is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Chevrolet Cobalt (143 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 53 more horse power than 1985 Ford Tempo. (90 HP @ 4700 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Chevrolet Cobalt should accelerate faster than 1985 Ford Tempo. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Chevrolet Cobalt weights approximately 161 kg more than 1985 Ford Tempo. 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 (210 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 40 more torque (in Nm) than 1985 Ford Tempo. (170 Nm @ 2700 RPM). This means 2006 Chevrolet Cobalt will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1985 Ford Tempo. 1985 Ford Tempo has automatic transmission and 2006 Chevrolet Cobalt has manual transmission. 2006 Chevrolet Cobalt will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1985 Ford Tempo will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

2006 Chevrolet Cobalt 1985 Ford Tempo
Make Chevrolet Ford
Model Cobalt Tempo
Year Released 2006 1985
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 2189 cc 2307 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Horse Power 143 HP 90 HP
Engine RPM 5600 RPM 4700 RPM
Torque 210 Nm 170 Nm
Torque RPM 4000 RPM 2700 RPM
Engine Bore Size 86.1 mm 96 mm
Engine Stroke Size 94.5 mm 79.5 mm
Fuel Type Gasoline Gasoline
Drive Type Front Front
Transmission Type Manual Automatic
Number of Seats 5 seats 4 seats
Vehicle Weight 1266 kg 1105 kg
Vehicle Length 4590 mm 4480 mm
Vehicle Width 1730 mm 1690 mm
Vehicle Height 1460 mm 1340 mm
Wheelbase Size 2630 mm 2540 mm