1961 Chevrolet Corvette vs. 2002 Volkswagen Golf

To start off, 2002 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 41 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 2002 Volkswagen Golf. (113 HP @ 5400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1961 Chevrolet Corvette should accelerate faster than 2002 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1961 Chevrolet Corvette weights approximately 295 kg more than 2002 Volkswagen Golf. 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, 2002 Volkswagen Golf, 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 235 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Volkswagen Golf. (172 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 1961 Chevrolet Corvette will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 Volkswagen Golf.

Compare all specifications:

1961 Chevrolet Corvette 2002 Volkswagen Golf
Make Chevrolet Volkswagen
Model Corvette Golf
Year Released 1961 2002
Body Type Convertible Hatchback
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 4637 cc 1984 cc
Engine Cylinders 8 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type V in-line
Valves per Cylinder 2 valves 4 valves
Horse Power 227 HP 113 HP
Engine RPM 4800 RPM 5400 RPM
Torque 407 Nm 172 Nm
Torque RPM 3000 RPM 3200 RPM
Fuel Type Gasoline Gasoline
Drive Type Rear Front
Number of Seats 2 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 2 doors 5 doors
Vehicle Weight 1400 kg 1105 kg
Vehicle Length 4280 mm 4148 mm
Vehicle Width 1760 mm 1735 mm
Vehicle Height 1250 mm 1440 mm
Wheelbase Size 2470 mm 2512 mm