2009 Chevrolet Cobalt vs. 1978 Opel Kadett
To start off, 2009 Chevrolet Cobalt is newer by 31 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Opel Kadett. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Opel Kadett would be higher. At 1,999 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Chevrolet Cobalt is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Chevrolet Cobalt (261 HP @ 5300 RPM) has 202 more horse power than 1978 Opel Kadett. (59 HP @ 5400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Chevrolet Cobalt should accelerate faster than 1978 Opel Kadett. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Chevrolet Cobalt weights approximately 441 kg more than 1978 Opel Kadett. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1978 Opel Kadett 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 1978 Opel Kadett. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 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, 2009 Chevrolet Cobalt (353 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 263 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Opel Kadett. (90 Nm @ 2600 RPM). This means 2009 Chevrolet Cobalt will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Opel Kadett.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Chevrolet Cobalt | 1978 Opel Kadett | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Opel |
| Model | Cobalt | Kadett |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1978 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1999 cc | 1196 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 261 HP | 59 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5300 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 353 Nm | 90 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 2600 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1261 kg | 820 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4590 mm | 4130 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1590 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1380 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2630 mm | 2400 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 49 L | 43 L |
