2009 Chevrolet Cobalt vs. 1980 Volkswagen Rabbit
To start off, 2009 Chevrolet Cobalt is newer by 29 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1980 Volkswagen Rabbit. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1980 Volkswagen Rabbit would be higher. At 2,198 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Chevrolet Cobalt is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Chevrolet Cobalt (153 HP @ 6100 RPM) has 91 more horse power than 1980 Volkswagen Rabbit. (62 HP @ 5400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Chevrolet Cobalt should accelerate faster than 1980 Volkswagen Rabbit. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Chevrolet Cobalt weights approximately 451 kg more than 1980 Volkswagen Rabbit. 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, 2009 Chevrolet Cobalt (150 Nm @ 4900 RPM) has 46 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Volkswagen Rabbit. (104 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2009 Chevrolet Cobalt will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Volkswagen Rabbit.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Chevrolet Cobalt | 1980 Volkswagen Rabbit | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Volkswagen |
| Model | Cobalt | Rabbit |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1980 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2198 cc | 1457 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 153 HP | 62 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6100 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 150 Nm | 104 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4900 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1261 kg | 810 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4590 mm | 3950 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1620 mm |
