1961 Chevrolet Corvair vs. 1981 Volkswagen Santana
To start off, 1981 Volkswagen Santana is newer by 20 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1961 Chevrolet Corvair. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1961 Chevrolet Corvair would be higher. At 2,368 cc (6 cylinders), 1961 Chevrolet Corvair is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1961 Chevrolet Corvair (81 HP @ 4400 RPM) has 28 more horse power than 1981 Volkswagen Santana. (53 HP @ 4800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1961 Chevrolet Corvair should accelerate faster than 1981 Volkswagen Santana. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1961 Chevrolet Corvair weights approximately 145 kg more than 1981 Volkswagen Santana. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1961 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 1961 Chevrolet Corvair. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1981 Volkswagen Santana, 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:
| 1961 Chevrolet Corvair | 1981 Volkswagen Santana | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Volkswagen |
| Model | Corvair | Santana |
| Year Released | 1961 | 1981 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 2368 cc | 1588 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 81 HP | 53 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4400 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1170 kg | 1025 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4580 mm | 4550 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1310 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2750 mm | 2560 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 61 L | 60 L |
