1997 Chevrolet Corvette vs. 2012 Volkswagen GTI
To start off, 2012 Volkswagen GTI is newer by 15 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Chevrolet Corvette. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Chevrolet Corvette would be higher. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Volkswagen GTI weights approximately 205 kg more than 1997 Chevrolet Corvette.
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, 2012 Volkswagen GTI, 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 (692 Nm) has 412 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Volkswagen GTI. (280 Nm). This means 1997 Chevrolet Corvette will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Volkswagen GTI.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Chevrolet Corvette | 2012 Volkswagen GTI | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Volkswagen |
| Model | Corvette | GTI |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 0 HP | 200 HP |
| Torque | 692 Nm | 280 Nm |
| Top Speed | 324 km/hour | 240 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1188 kg | 1393 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4570 mm | 4213 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1880 mm | 1786 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1220 mm | 1501 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2660 mm | 2578 mm |
