1996 Chevrolet Corvette vs. 2011 Chevrolet Impala
To start off, 2011 Chevrolet Impala is newer by 15 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Chevrolet Corvette. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Chevrolet Corvette 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 47 more horse power than 2011 Chevrolet Impala. (230 HP @ 5700 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 Chevrolet Corvette should accelerate faster than 2011 Chevrolet Impala. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Chevrolet Impala weights approximately 35 kg more than 1996 Chevrolet Corvette.
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, 2011 Chevrolet Impala, 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 119 more torque (in Nm) than 2011 Chevrolet Impala. (318 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 1996 Chevrolet Corvette will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2011 Chevrolet Impala.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Chevrolet Corvette | 2011 Chevrolet Impala | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Chevrolet |
| Model | Corvette | Impala |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5737 cc | 3900 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 277 HP | 230 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Torque | 437 Nm | 318 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Flex Fuel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1620 kg | 1655 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4580 mm | 5090 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1880 mm | 1852 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1220 mm | 1491 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2660 mm | 2807 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 117 L | 64 L |
