1996 Chevrolet Corvette vs. 1981 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 1996 Chevrolet Corvette is newer by 15 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Volkswagen Passat. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Volkswagen Passat 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) has 266 more horse power than 1981 Volkswagen Passat. (59 HP). In normal driving conditions, 1996 Chevrolet Corvette should accelerate faster than 1981 Volkswagen Passat. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Chevrolet Corvette weights approximately 583 kg more than 1981 Volkswagen Passat. 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, 1981 Volkswagen Passat, 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 361 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Volkswagen Passat. (100 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1996 Chevrolet Corvette will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Volkswagen Passat.
Compare all specifications:
1996 Chevrolet Corvette | 1981 Volkswagen Passat | |
Make | Chevrolet | Volkswagen |
Model | Corvette | Passat |
Year Released | 1996 | 1981 |
Body Type | Coupe | Station Wagon |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 5733 cc | 1295 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | in-line |
Horse Power | 325 HP | 59 HP |
Torque | 461 Nm | 100 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 3500 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 101.6 mm | 75 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 88.4 mm | 73.4 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 10.8:1 | 9.0:1 |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1523 kg | 940 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4540 mm | 4440 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1690 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1210 mm | 1390 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2660 mm | 2560 mm |