2006 Chevrolet Cobalt vs. 1989 Mazda 323
To start off, 2006 Chevrolet Cobalt is newer by 17 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1989 Mazda 323. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1989 Mazda 323 would be higher. At 2,196 cc (4 cylinders), 2006 Chevrolet Cobalt is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Chevrolet Cobalt (145 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 5 more horse power than 1989 Mazda 323. (140 HP @ 6500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Chevrolet Cobalt should accelerate faster than 1989 Mazda 323. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Chevrolet Cobalt weights approximately 704 kg more than 1989 Mazda 323. 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 (211 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 47 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Mazda 323. (164 Nm @ 4700 RPM). This means 2006 Chevrolet Cobalt will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Mazda 323.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Chevrolet Cobalt | 1989 Mazda 323 | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Mazda |
| Model | Cobalt | 323 |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1989 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2196 cc | 1840 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 145 HP | 140 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 211 Nm | 164 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4700 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86 mm | 83.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 94 mm | 85 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1750 kg | 1046 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4590 mm | 4000 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1680 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1360 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2630 mm | 2510 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 49 L | 50 L |
