1955 Chevrolet Corvette vs. 2003 Volvo V50
To start off, 2003 Volvo V50 is newer by 48 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 3,868 cc (6 cylinders), 1955 Chevrolet Corvette is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Volvo V50 (217 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 69 more horse power than 1955 Chevrolet Corvette. (148 HP @ 4200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Volvo V50 should accelerate faster than 1955 Chevrolet Corvette. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Volvo V50 weights approximately 129 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.
Because 1955 Chevrolet Corvette is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 1955 Chevrolet Corvette. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 Volvo V50, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. 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, 2003 Volvo V50 (320 Nm @ 1500 RPM) has 18 more torque (in Nm) than 1955 Chevrolet Corvette. (302 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 2003 Volvo V50 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1955 Chevrolet Corvette.
Compare all specifications:
| 1955 Chevrolet Corvette | 2003 Volvo V50 | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Volvo |
| Model | Corvette | V50 |
| Year Released | 1955 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3868 cc | 2524 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 217 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 302 Nm | 320 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 1500 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1296 kg | 1425 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4250 mm | 4520 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1330 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2630 mm | 2720 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 62 L |
