2006 Chevrolet Cobalt vs. 1996 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2006 Chevrolet Cobalt is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Volkswagen Golf. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Volkswagen Golf would be higher. At 2,801 cc (6 cylinders), 1996 Volkswagen Golf is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Volkswagen Golf (172 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 29 more horse power than 2006 Chevrolet Cobalt. (143 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1996 Volkswagen Golf should accelerate faster than 2006 Chevrolet Cobalt.
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, 1996 Volkswagen Golf (235 Nm) has 25 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Chevrolet Cobalt. (210 Nm). This means 1996 Volkswagen Golf will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Chevrolet Cobalt.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Chevrolet Cobalt | 1996 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Volkswagen |
| Model | Cobalt | Golf |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1996 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2189 cc | 2801 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 143 HP | 172 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 210 Nm | 235 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 86.1 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 94.5 mm | 90.4 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Length | 4590 mm | 4080 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2630 mm | 2480 mm |
