1980 Chevrolet El Camino vs. 2003 Chevrolet Corvette
To start off, 2003 Chevrolet Corvette is newer by 23 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1980 Chevrolet El Camino. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1980 Chevrolet El Camino would be higher. At 5,664 cc (8 cylinders), 2003 Chevrolet Corvette is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Chevrolet Corvette (350 HP) has 215 more horse power than 1980 Chevrolet El Camino. (135 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Chevrolet Corvette should accelerate faster than 1980 Chevrolet El Camino. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1980 Chevrolet El Camino weights approximately 55 kg more than 2003 Chevrolet Corvette.
Because 2003 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 2003 Chevrolet Corvette. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1980 Chevrolet El Camino, 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, 2003 Chevrolet Corvette (485 Nm) has 214 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Chevrolet El Camino. (271 Nm). This means 2003 Chevrolet Corvette will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Chevrolet El Camino. 1980 Chevrolet El Camino has automatic transmission and 2003 Chevrolet Corvette has manual transmission. 2003 Chevrolet Corvette will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1980 Chevrolet El Camino will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1980 Chevrolet El Camino | 2003 Chevrolet Corvette | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Chevrolet |
| Model | El Camino | Corvette |
| Year Released | 1980 | 2003 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4400 cc | 5664 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 135 HP | 350 HP |
| Torque | 271 Nm | 485 Nm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.3:1 | 10.1:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 2 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1555 kg | 1500 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5130 mm | 4440 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1880 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1220 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2980 mm | 2810 mm |
