1996 Chevrolet Corvette vs. 1991 Volkswagen Golf

To start off, 1996 Chevrolet Corvette is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1991 Volkswagen Golf. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1991 Volkswagen Golf would be higher. At 5,737 cc (8 cylinders), 1996 Chevrolet Corvette is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Chevrolet Corvette (277 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 102 more horse power than 1991 Volkswagen Golf. (175 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 Chevrolet Corvette should accelerate faster than 1991 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Chevrolet Corvette weights approximately 465 kg more than 1991 Volkswagen Golf. 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, 1991 Volkswagen Golf, 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 (437 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 203 more torque (in Nm) than 1991 Volkswagen Golf. (234 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 1996 Chevrolet Corvette will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1991 Volkswagen Golf.

Compare all specifications:

1996 Chevrolet Corvette 1991 Volkswagen Golf
Make Chevrolet Volkswagen
Model Corvette Golf
Year Released 1996 1991
Body Type Convertible Hatchback
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 5737 cc 2792 cc
Engine Cylinders 8 cylinders 6 cylinders
Engine Type in-line V
Horse Power 277 HP 175 HP
Engine RPM 5200 RPM 5800 RPM
Torque 437 Nm 234 Nm
Torque RPM 2400 RPM 4200 RPM
Drive Type Rear Front
Number of Seats 2 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 2 doors 3 doors
Vehicle Weight 1620 kg 1155 kg
Vehicle Length 4580 mm 4030 mm
Vehicle Width 1880 mm 1700 mm
Vehicle Height 1220 mm 1410 mm
Wheelbase Size 2660 mm 2480 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity 117 L 55 L