1997 Chevrolet Corvette vs. 1969 Riley Kestrel
To start off, 1997 Chevrolet Corvette is newer by 28 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1969 Riley Kestrel. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1969 Riley Kestrel would be higher. At 5,666 cc (8 cylinders), 1997 Chevrolet Corvette is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Chevrolet Corvette (345 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 281 more horse power than 1969 Riley Kestrel. (64 HP @ 5750 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 Chevrolet Corvette should accelerate faster than 1969 Riley Kestrel. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Chevrolet Corvette weights approximately 485 kg more than 1969 Riley Kestrel. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1997 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 1997 Chevrolet Corvette. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1969 Riley Kestrel, 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, 1997 Chevrolet Corvette (475 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 379 more torque (in Nm) than 1969 Riley Kestrel. (96 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1997 Chevrolet Corvette will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1969 Riley Kestrel.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Chevrolet Corvette | 1969 Riley Kestrel | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Riley |
| Model | Corvette | Kestrel |
| Year Released | 1997 | 1969 |
| Engine Size | 5666 cc | 1275 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 345 HP | 64 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5750 RPM |
| Torque | 475 Nm | 96 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4400 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Vehicle Weight | 1395 kg | 910 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4570 mm | 3730 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1880 mm | 1540 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1220 mm | 1350 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2660 mm | 2380 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 72 L | 25 L |
