1998 Chevrolet Corvette vs. 1979 Volkswagen Beetle
To start off, 1998 Chevrolet Corvette is newer by 19 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1979 Volkswagen Beetle. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 Volkswagen Beetle would be higher. At 5,737 cc (8 cylinders), 1998 Chevrolet Corvette is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Chevrolet Corvette (277 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 234 more horse power than 1979 Volkswagen Beetle. (43 HP @ 4100 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 Chevrolet Corvette should accelerate faster than 1979 Volkswagen Beetle. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Chevrolet Corvette weights approximately 752 kg more than 1979 Volkswagen Beetle. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1998 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 1998 Chevrolet Corvette. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1979 Volkswagen Beetle, 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, 1998 Chevrolet Corvette (437 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 351 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Volkswagen Beetle. (86 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1998 Chevrolet Corvette will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Volkswagen Beetle.
Compare all specifications:
1998 Chevrolet Corvette | 1979 Volkswagen Beetle | |
Make | Chevrolet | Volkswagen |
Model | Corvette | Beetle |
Year Released | 1998 | 1979 |
Body Type | Coupe | Convertible |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 5737 cc | 1285 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | in-line |
Horse Power | 277 HP | 43 HP |
Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 4100 RPM |
Torque | 437 Nm | 86 Nm |
Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 3000 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 1572 kg | 820 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4570 mm | 4070 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1880 mm | 1560 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2860 mm | 2410 mm |