1981 Chevrolet Corvette vs. 2011 Mercedes-Benz CLS
To start off, 2011 Mercedes-Benz CLS is newer by 30 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Chevrolet Corvette. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Chevrolet Corvette would be higher. At 5,765 cc (8 cylinders), 1981 Chevrolet Corvette is equipped with a bigger engine.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. 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, 2011 Mercedes-Benz CLS (620 Nm) has 240 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Chevrolet Corvette. (380 Nm). This means 2011 Mercedes-Benz CLS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Chevrolet Corvette. 2011 Mercedes-Benz CLS has automatic transmission and 1981 Chevrolet Corvette has manual transmission. 1981 Chevrolet Corvette will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2011 Mercedes-Benz CLS will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1981 Chevrolet Corvette | 2011 Mercedes-Benz CLS | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Corvette | CLS |
| Year Released | 1981 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5765 cc | 2987 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 0 HP | 264 HP |
| Torque | 380 Nm | 620 Nm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 7-speed shiftable automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4710 mm | 4940 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1882 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1230 mm | 1417 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2500 mm | 2875 mm |
