1977 Chevrolet Corvette vs. 1996 Volkswagen Cabriolet

To start off, 1996 Volkswagen Cabriolet is newer by 19 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1977 Chevrolet Corvette. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1977 Chevrolet Corvette would be higher. At 5,733 cc (8 cylinders), 1977 Chevrolet Corvette is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1977 Chevrolet Corvette (210 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 95 more horse power than 1996 Volkswagen Cabriolet. (115 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1977 Chevrolet Corvette should accelerate faster than 1996 Volkswagen Cabriolet.

Because 1977 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 1977 Chevrolet Corvette. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1996 Volkswagen Cabriolet, 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, 1977 Chevrolet Corvette (346 Nm) has 181 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Volkswagen Cabriolet. (165 Nm). This means 1977 Chevrolet Corvette will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Volkswagen Cabriolet. 1977 Chevrolet Corvette has automatic transmission and 1996 Volkswagen Cabriolet has manual transmission. 1996 Volkswagen Cabriolet will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1977 Chevrolet Corvette will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

1977 Chevrolet Corvette 1996 Volkswagen Cabriolet
Make Chevrolet Volkswagen
Model Corvette Cabriolet
Year Released 1977 1996
Body Type Coupe Convertible
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 5733 cc 1984 cc
Engine Cylinders 8 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type V in-line
Horse Power 210 HP 115 HP
Engine RPM 5200 RPM 4000 RPM
Torque 346 Nm 165 Nm
Engine Compression Ratio 9.0:1 10.0:1
Drive Type Rear Front
Transmission Type Automatic Manual
Number of Seats 2 seats 4 seats
Vehicle Length 4710 mm 4080 mm
Vehicle Width 1760 mm 1700 mm
Vehicle Height 1230 mm 1430 mm
Wheelbase Size 2500 mm 2480 mm