1957 Chevrolet Corvette vs. 1959 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia
To start off, 1959 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1957 Chevrolet Corvette. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1957 Chevrolet Corvette would be higher. At 4,638 cc (8 cylinders), 1957 Chevrolet Corvette is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1957 Chevrolet Corvette (283 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 231 more horse power than 1959 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia. (52 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1957 Chevrolet Corvette should accelerate faster than 1959 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1957 Chevrolet Corvette weights approximately 490 kg more than 1959 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front 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.
Compare all specifications:
| 1957 Chevrolet Corvette | 1959 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Volkswagen |
| Model | Corvette | Karmann-Ghia |
| Year Released | 1957 | 1959 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Rear |
| Engine Size | 4638 cc | 1493 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 283 HP | 52 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1350 kg | 860 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4520 mm | 4200 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1640 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1310 mm | 1340 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2600 mm | 2430 mm |
