1972 Chevrolet Corvette vs. 1980 Volkswagen Beetle
To start off, 1980 Volkswagen Beetle is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1972 Chevrolet Corvette. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1972 Chevrolet Corvette would be higher. At 5,733 cc (8 cylinders), 1972 Chevrolet Corvette is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1972 Chevrolet Corvette (255 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 212 more horse power than 1980 Volkswagen Beetle. (43 HP @ 4100 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1972 Chevrolet Corvette should accelerate faster than 1980 Volkswagen Beetle. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1972 Chevrolet Corvette weights approximately 679 kg more than 1980 Volkswagen Beetle. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1972 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 1972 Chevrolet Corvette. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1980 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, 1972 Chevrolet Corvette (380 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 294 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Volkswagen Beetle. (86 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1972 Chevrolet Corvette will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Volkswagen Beetle.
Compare all specifications:
1972 Chevrolet Corvette | 1980 Volkswagen Beetle | |
Make | Chevrolet | Volkswagen |
Model | Corvette | Beetle |
Year Released | 1972 | 1980 |
Body Type | Coupe | Convertible |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 5733 cc | 1285 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | in-line |
Horse Power | 255 HP | 43 HP |
Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 4100 RPM |
Torque | 380 Nm | 86 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1499 kg | 820 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4640 mm | 4070 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1560 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1220 mm | 1630 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2500 mm | 2410 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 68 L | 40 L |