1996 Chevrolet Corvette vs. 1977 Volkswagen Beetle
To start off, 1996 Chevrolet Corvette is newer by 19 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1977 Volkswagen Beetle. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1977 Volkswagen Beetle would be higher. At 5,733 cc (8 cylinders), 1996 Chevrolet Corvette is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Chevrolet Corvette (325 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 282 more horse power than 1977 Volkswagen Beetle. (43 HP @ 4100 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 Chevrolet Corvette should accelerate faster than 1977 Volkswagen Beetle. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Chevrolet Corvette weights approximately 703 kg more than 1977 Volkswagen Beetle. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1996 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 1996 Chevrolet Corvette. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1977 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, 1996 Chevrolet Corvette (461 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 374 more torque (in Nm) than 1977 Volkswagen Beetle. (87 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1996 Chevrolet Corvette will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1977 Volkswagen Beetle.
Compare all specifications:
1996 Chevrolet Corvette | 1977 Volkswagen Beetle | |
Make | Chevrolet | Volkswagen |
Model | Corvette | Beetle |
Year Released | 1996 | 1977 |
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 | 325 HP | 43 HP |
Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 4100 RPM |
Torque | 461 Nm | 87 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 3000 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 1523 kg | 820 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4540 mm | 4070 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1560 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2660 mm | 2410 mm |