2009 Chevrolet Cobalt vs. 1988 Opel Vectra
To start off, 2009 Chevrolet Cobalt is newer by 21 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 Opel Vectra. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 Opel Vectra 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 (156 HP @ 6100 RPM) has 75 more horse power than 1988 Opel Vectra. (81 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Chevrolet Cobalt should accelerate faster than 1988 Opel Vectra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Chevrolet Cobalt weights approximately 236 kg more than 1988 Opel Vectra. 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 78 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 Opel Vectra. (125 Nm @ 2600 RPM). This means 2009 Chevrolet Cobalt will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 Opel Vectra.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Chevrolet Cobalt | 1988 Opel Vectra | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Opel |
| Model | Cobalt | Vectra |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1988 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2201 cc | 1598 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 156 HP | 81 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6100 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 203 Nm | 125 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4900 RPM | 2600 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.3:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1261 kg | 1025 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4590 mm | 4440 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2630 mm | 2740 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 7.8 L/100km | 7.5 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 49 L | 60 L |
