1960 Chevrolet Corvair vs. 1959 Volkswagen Beetle
To start off, 1960 Chevrolet Corvair is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1959 Volkswagen Beetle. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1959 Volkswagen Beetle would be higher. At 2,368 cc (6 cylinders), 1960 Chevrolet Corvair is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1960 Chevrolet Corvair (81 HP @ 4400 RPM) has 47 more horse power than 1959 Volkswagen Beetle. (34 HP @ 3900 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1960 Chevrolet Corvair should accelerate faster than 1959 Volkswagen Beetle. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1960 Chevrolet Corvair weights approximately 370 kg more than 1959 Volkswagen Beetle. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1960 Chevrolet Corvair 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 1960 Chevrolet Corvair. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1959 Volkswagen Beetle, 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.
Compare all specifications:
1960 Chevrolet Corvair | 1959 Volkswagen Beetle | |
Make | Chevrolet | Volkswagen |
Model | Corvair | Beetle |
Year Released | 1960 | 1959 |
Body Type | Convertible | Convertible |
Engine Position | Rear | Front |
Engine Size | 2368 cc | 1192 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
Horse Power | 81 HP | 34 HP |
Engine RPM | 4400 RPM | 3900 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1170 kg | 800 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4580 mm | 4070 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1560 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2750 mm | 2410 mm |