2008 Chevrolet Cobalt vs. 1979 Volvo 260
To start off, 2008 Chevrolet Cobalt is newer by 29 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1979 Volvo 260. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 Volvo 260 would be higher. At 2,664 cc (6 cylinders), 1979 Volvo 260 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Chevrolet Cobalt (171 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 25 more horse power than 1979 Volvo 260. (146 HP @ 5700 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Chevrolet Cobalt should accelerate faster than 1979 Volvo 260. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1979 Volvo 260 weights approximately 89 kg more than 2008 Chevrolet Cobalt.
Because 1979 Volvo 260 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 1979 Volvo 260. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 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, 2008 Chevrolet Cobalt (226 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 8 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Volvo 260. (218 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2008 Chevrolet Cobalt will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Volvo 260. 1979 Volvo 260 has automatic transmission and 2008 Chevrolet Cobalt has manual transmission. 2008 Chevrolet Cobalt will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1979 Volvo 260 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Chevrolet Cobalt | 1979 Volvo 260 | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Volvo |
| Model | Cobalt | 260 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1979 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2393 cc | 2664 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 171 HP | 146 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Torque | 226 Nm | 218 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1261 kg | 1350 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4590 mm | 4890 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2630 mm | 2660 mm |
