2009 Chevrolet Cobalt vs. 1986 Toyota Corolla

To start off, 2009 Chevrolet Cobalt is newer by 23 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1986 Toyota Corolla. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1986 Toyota Corolla 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 32 more horse power than 1986 Toyota Corolla. (123 HP @ 6600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Chevrolet Cobalt should accelerate faster than 1986 Toyota Corolla. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Chevrolet Cobalt weights approximately 760 kg more than 1986 Toyota Corolla. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 1986 Toyota Corolla 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 1986 Toyota Corolla. 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 (203 Nm @ 4900 RPM) has 61 more torque (in Nm) than 1986 Toyota Corolla. (142 Nm @ 5200 RPM). This means 2009 Chevrolet Cobalt will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1986 Toyota Corolla.

Compare all specifications:

2009 Chevrolet Cobalt 1986 Toyota Corolla
Make Chevrolet Toyota
Model Cobalt Corolla
Year Released 2009 1986
Body Type Coupe Coupe
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 2201 cc 1587 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Horse Power 155 HP 123 HP
Engine RPM 6100 RPM 6600 RPM
Torque 203 Nm 142 Nm
Torque RPM 4900 RPM 5200 RPM
Engine Compression Ratio 9.1:1 10.0:1
Fuel Type Gasoline Gasoline
Drive Type Front Rear
Number of Seats 5 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 2 doors 4 doors
Vehicle Weight 1750 kg 990 kg
Vehicle Length 4590 mm 4190 mm
Vehicle Width 1730 mm 1630 mm
Vehicle Height 1420 mm 1390 mm
Wheelbase Size 2630 mm 2410 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity 49 L 75 L