2009 Chevrolet Cobalt vs. 1985 Mazda 323
To start off, 2009 Chevrolet Cobalt is newer by 24 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1985 Mazda 323. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1985 Mazda 323 would be higher. At 2,201 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Chevrolet Cobalt is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Chevrolet Cobalt (155 HP @ 6100 RPM) has 52 more horse power than 1985 Mazda 323. (103 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Chevrolet Cobalt should accelerate faster than 1985 Mazda 323. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Chevrolet Cobalt weights approximately 810 kg more than 1985 Mazda 323. 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 (203 Nm @ 4900 RPM) has 66 more torque (in Nm) than 1985 Mazda 323. (137 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 2009 Chevrolet Cobalt will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1985 Mazda 323. 2009 Chevrolet Cobalt has automatic transmission and 1985 Mazda 323 has manual transmission. 1985 Mazda 323 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2009 Chevrolet Cobalt will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Chevrolet Cobalt | 1985 Mazda 323 | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Mazda |
| Model | Cobalt | 323 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1985 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2201 cc | 1597 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 155 HP | 103 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6100 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 203 Nm | 137 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4900 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.1:1 | 8.6:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1750 kg | 940 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4590 mm | 4000 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1660 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2630 mm | 2410 mm |
