1955 Chevrolet Corvette vs. 1959 Chrysler Imperial
To start off, 1959 Chrysler Imperial is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1955 Chevrolet Corvette. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1955 Chevrolet Corvette would be higher. At 5,802 cc (8 cylinders), 1959 Chrysler Imperial is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1959 Chrysler Imperial (276 HP @ 4600 RPM) has 81 more horse power than 1955 Chevrolet Corvette. (195 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1959 Chrysler Imperial should accelerate faster than 1955 Chevrolet Corvette. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1959 Chrysler Imperial weights approximately 1133 kg more than 1955 Chevrolet Corvette. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Let's talk about torque, 1959 Chrysler Imperial (510 Nm @ 2800 RPM) has 157 more torque (in Nm) than 1955 Chevrolet Corvette. (353 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1959 Chrysler Imperial will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1955 Chevrolet Corvette.
Compare all specifications:
| 1955 Chevrolet Corvette | 1959 Chrysler Imperial | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Chrysler |
| Model | Corvette | Imperial |
| Year Released | 1955 | 1959 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4344 cc | 5802 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 195 HP | 276 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 4600 RPM |
| Torque | 353 Nm | 510 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 2800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Vehicle Weight | 1227 kg | 2360 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4250 mm | 6170 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 2020 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1330 mm | 1560 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2600 mm | 3800 mm |
