1984 Volkswagen Jetta vs. 2012 Chevrolet Corvette
To start off, 2012 Chevrolet Corvette is newer by 28 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1984 Volkswagen Jetta. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1984 Volkswagen Jetta would be higher. At 6,200 cc (8 cylinders), 2012 Chevrolet Corvette is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Chevrolet Corvette (430 HP @ 5900 RPM) has 356 more horse power than 1984 Volkswagen Jetta. (74 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Chevrolet Corvette should accelerate faster than 1984 Volkswagen Jetta. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Chevrolet Corvette weights approximately 592 kg more than 1984 Volkswagen Jetta. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2012 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 2012 Chevrolet Corvette. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1984 Volkswagen Jetta, 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, 2012 Chevrolet Corvette (574 Nm @ 4600 RPM) has 446 more torque (in Nm) than 1984 Volkswagen Jetta. (128 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2012 Chevrolet Corvette will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1984 Volkswagen Jetta.
Compare all specifications:
| 1984 Volkswagen Jetta | 2012 Chevrolet Corvette | |
| Make | Volkswagen | Chevrolet |
| Model | Jetta | Corvette |
| Year Released | 1984 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1595 cc | 6200 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 74 HP | 430 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 5900 RPM |
| Torque | 128 Nm | 574 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 4600 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 900 kg | 1492 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4320 mm | 4460 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1928 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1237 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2480 mm | 2685 mm |
