2003 Chevrolet Corvette vs. 1980 Volkswagen Jetta

To start off, 2003 Chevrolet Corvette is newer by 23 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1980 Volkswagen Jetta. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1980 Volkswagen Jetta would be higher. At 5,665 cc (8 cylinders), 2003 Chevrolet Corvette is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Chevrolet Corvette (340 HP) has 281 more horse power than 1980 Volkswagen Jetta. (59 HP). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Chevrolet Corvette should accelerate faster than 1980 Volkswagen Jetta. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Chevrolet Corvette weights approximately 695 kg more than 1980 Volkswagen Jetta. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 2003 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 2003 Chevrolet Corvette. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1980 Volkswagen Jetta, 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, 2003 Chevrolet Corvette (483 Nm @ 4200 RPM) has 388 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Volkswagen Jetta. (95 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2003 Chevrolet Corvette will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Volkswagen Jetta.

Compare all specifications:

2003 Chevrolet Corvette 1980 Volkswagen Jetta
Make Chevrolet Volkswagen
Model Corvette Jetta
Year Released 2003 1980
Body Type Coupe Coupe
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 5665 cc 1272 cc
Engine Cylinders 8 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type V in-line
Horse Power 340 HP 59 HP
Torque 483 Nm 95 Nm
Torque RPM 4200 RPM 3500 RPM
Drive Type Rear Front
Transmission Type Manual Manual
Number of Seats 2 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 2 doors 4 doors
Vehicle Weight 1520 kg 825 kg
Vehicle Length 4570 mm 4200 mm
Vehicle Width 1880 mm 1620 mm
Vehicle Height 1220 mm 1420 mm
Wheelbase Size 2950 mm 2410 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity 117 L 40 L