Sorry I can't post this in any particular engine forum because it's about all of them. What's the difference between the different engines? I always thought a 2.4 would be the best, but it seems to have lower numbers than others.

OK I read some more and I realized the 2.4 isn't supercharged or turbocharged. I thought all SS were one or the other. So basically here's the deal: my dad's got a dealer's license and was supposed to get me a manual, but he got me a 2.4 auto, so if I want he'll find me a manual. Should I ask him to find a 2.0 manual? It'll probably be SC since finding a 2008 used in my budget is unlikely. Otherwise I could ask him to get a 2.4 manual and save up until I can get it TC. What do you all think is the best option?

 

SS Supercharged/Turbocharged=2.0L (Fastest)

LT/LS=2.2L

SS/NA=2.4

 

In order of stock quickness: (slowest to quickest)

2.2
2.4 SS/NA (larger displacement helps it)
2.0 SS/SC (supercharger trumps .2 additional liters)
2.0 SS/TC (turbo and direct injection trump supercharger in this case)

Something to keep in mind though, is if you add a supercharger or turbo to a 2.4, you may have one bad moving machine on your hands. It'd take some money though.

2.0SC can make some great numbers with similar money put into them.

Personally (given your money situation), I'd take the 2.0SC just because of the greater quickness out of the box. The only reason I'd take a 2.4 is if you wanted a sporty car, but couldn't part with an automatic tranny. It's probably got better insurance rates too come to think of it though.

 

if the cobalt ain't boosted, it ain't worth it.

 

I have a boosted 2.4 and its nice. Though finding someone to tune it correctly has been crazy...