V1 DONOR INFO

Chevrolet Cobalt Donor

Your Goblin V1 build starts with a Chevrolet Cobalt (or Pontiac G5). You will use the powertrain, electrical system, fuel pump, and much more from the donor to complete your Goblin.

Which Cobalt should you choose?

The Chevrolet Cobalt came in several trims, which makes it a flexible donor for your Goblin V1. From the base naturally aspirated models to the higher output SS versions, there is an option for every build style and budget.

The list below walks through each trim in order from the lowest power base models up to the most powerful SS/TC.

Horsepower: 145 to 148 hp
Transmission: 5-speed manual or automatic
Availability: Easy to find
Notes: Solid, affordable starting point.

Horsepower: 155 hp
Transmission: 5-speed manual or automatic
Availability: Easy to find
Notes: Best power in the base group.

Horsepower: 171 to 173 hp
Transmission: 5-speed manual or automatic
Availability: Rare
Notes: More power but still without forced induction.

Horsepower: 205 hp
Transmission: 5-speed manual
Availability: Hard to find
Notes: Factory supercharged, fun and responsive.

Horsepower: 260 hp
Transmission: 5-speed manual
Availability: Rare
Notes: Most powerful trim but harder to find.

Where can I find a Cobalt donor?

The best value is usually a wrecked donor from an insurance auction such as Copart or IAA. You can also shop Facebook Marketplace and Craigslist for running cars, though asking prices are typically higher.

What will I need from the donor?

Plan to reuse the engine, transaxle, ECU and wiring, pedal box, cluster, hubs, and several interior controls, plus the fuel pump and other small components. Using as many donor parts as possible keeps the build cost effective.

For the complete checklist, see the Detailed Donor Parts List.

Goblin V1 Donor FAQ

2005 through 2010 Chevrolet Cobalt and Pontiac G5 trims listed on this page are compatible. Match the kit to your trim so mounts, plumbing, and fuel system components line up correctly.

Engine, transaxle, ECU, body and engine harnesses, pedal box, cluster, steering column, hubs, shifter assembly, fuel pump module, and several small brackets and sensors. See the Detailed Donor Parts List for the full checklist.

Condition matters more than miles but a good rule of thumb is to keep mileage under 150,000.

No. Either body style can be a good donor.

SS SC is 205 hp and easier to find than a clean SS TC. SS TC starts at 260 hp with more headroom. Both are strong choices if you want the fastest stock builds. Availability and budget often decide it.

Yes. A wrecked or salvage Cobalt is common for Goblin builds and is usually the best value. Your Goblin will generally be registered as an assembled vehicle and the salvage title will only be used to prove ownership of the donor.

Avoid flood cars, severe electrical damage, and fire damaged cars. Heavy front hits can be fine if the drivetrain and harnesses are intact and undamaged.

Pricing varies by region and trim. Salvage base donors are typically the least expensive with base models being available for under $1,000 before fees. SS donors go for several thousand dollars depending on trim, mileage, and damage.