2009 Chevrolet Cobalt vs. 1988 Renault 21
To start off, 2009 Chevrolet Cobalt is newer by 21 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 Renault 21. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 Renault 21 would be higher. At 1,999 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Chevrolet Cobalt is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Chevrolet Cobalt (260 HP @ 5300 RPM) has 185 more horse power than 1988 Renault 21. (75 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Chevrolet Cobalt should accelerate faster than 1988 Renault 21. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Chevrolet Cobalt weights approximately 306 kg more than 1988 Renault 21. 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 (353 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 224 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 Renault 21. (129 Nm @ 3250 RPM). This means 2009 Chevrolet Cobalt will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 Renault 21.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Chevrolet Cobalt | 1988 Renault 21 | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Renault |
| Model | Cobalt | 21 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1988 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1999 cc | 1721 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 260 HP | 75 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5300 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 353 Nm | 129 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 3250 RPM |
| 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 | 955 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4590 mm | 4470 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2630 mm | 2550 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 9.4 L/100km | 7 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 49 L | 55 L |
