1959 Chevrolet Corvette vs. 2009 Lexus ES
To start off, 2009 Lexus ES is newer by 50 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1959 Chevrolet Corvette. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1959 Chevrolet Corvette would be higher. At 4,636 cc (8 cylinders), 1959 Chevrolet Corvette is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Lexus ES (272 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 45 more horse power than 1959 Chevrolet Corvette. (227 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Lexus ES should accelerate faster than 1959 Chevrolet Corvette. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Lexus ES weights approximately 55 kg more than 1959 Chevrolet Corvette. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1959 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 1959 Chevrolet Corvette. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 Lexus ES, 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, 1959 Chevrolet Corvette (407 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 62 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Lexus ES. (345 Nm @ 4700 RPM). This means 1959 Chevrolet Corvette will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Lexus ES.
Compare all specifications:
1959 Chevrolet Corvette | 2009 Lexus ES | |
Make | Chevrolet | Lexus |
Model | Corvette | ES |
Year Released | 1959 | 2009 |
Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 4636 cc | 3441 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | V |
Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 227 HP | 272 HP |
Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 6200 RPM |
Torque | 407 Nm | 345 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 4700 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1400 kg | 1455 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4280 mm | 4860 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1830 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1250 mm | 1460 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2470 mm | 2780 mm |