1961 Chevrolet Corvette vs. 1999 Volkswagen Beetle

To start off, 1999 Volkswagen Beetle is newer by 38 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1961 Chevrolet Corvette. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1961 Chevrolet Corvette would be higher. At 4,637 cc (8 cylinders), 1961 Chevrolet Corvette is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1961 Chevrolet Corvette (227 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 114 more horse power than 1999 Volkswagen Beetle. (113 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1961 Chevrolet Corvette should accelerate faster than 1999 Volkswagen Beetle. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1961 Chevrolet Corvette weights approximately 169 kg more than 1999 Volkswagen Beetle. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 1961 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 1961 Chevrolet Corvette. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1999 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. Let's talk about torque, 1961 Chevrolet Corvette (407 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 236 more torque (in Nm) than 1999 Volkswagen Beetle. (171 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 1961 Chevrolet Corvette will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1999 Volkswagen Beetle.

Compare all specifications:

1961 Chevrolet Corvette 1999 Volkswagen Beetle
Make Chevrolet Volkswagen
Model Corvette Beetle
Year Released 1961 1999
Body Type Convertible Coupe
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 4637 cc 1984 cc
Engine Cylinders 8 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type V in-line
Horse Power 227 HP 113 HP
Engine RPM 4800 RPM 5200 RPM
Torque 407 Nm 171 Nm
Torque RPM 3000 RPM 2400 RPM
Drive Type Rear Front
Number of Seats 2 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 2 doors 2 doors
Vehicle Weight 1400 kg 1231 kg
Vehicle Length 4280 mm 4090 mm
Vehicle Width 1760 mm 1730 mm
Vehicle Height 1250 mm 1500 mm
Wheelbase Size 2470 mm 2630 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity 61 L 55 L