2009 Chevrolet Cobalt vs. 1979 Lotus Esprit
To start off, 2009 Chevrolet Cobalt is newer by 30 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1979 Lotus Esprit. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 Lotus Esprit would be higher. At 2,201 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Chevrolet Cobalt is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1979 Lotus Esprit (160 HP) has 5 more horse power than 2009 Chevrolet Cobalt. (155 HP) In normal driving conditions, 1979 Lotus Esprit should accelerate faster than 2009 Chevrolet Cobalt.
Because 1979 Lotus Esprit 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 Lotus Esprit. 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, 1979 Lotus Esprit (217 Nm) has 14 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Chevrolet Cobalt. (203 Nm). This means 1979 Lotus Esprit will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Chevrolet Cobalt.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Chevrolet Cobalt | 1979 Lotus Esprit | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Lotus |
| Model | Cobalt | Esprit |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1979 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 2201 cc | 2174 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 155 HP | 160 HP |
| Torque | 203 Nm | 217 Nm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4590 mm | 4200 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1120 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2630 mm | 2440 mm |
