2003 Chevrolet Corvette vs. 1981 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2003 Chevrolet Corvette is newer by 22 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Volkswagen Golf. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Volkswagen Golf would be higher. At 5,970 cc (8 cylinders), 2003 Chevrolet Corvette is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Chevrolet Corvette (395 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 346 more horse power than 1981 Volkswagen Golf. (49 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Chevrolet Corvette should accelerate faster than 1981 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Chevrolet Corvette weights approximately 1000 kg more than 1981 Volkswagen Golf. 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, 1981 Volkswagen Golf, 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 (544 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 465 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Volkswagen Golf. (79 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2003 Chevrolet Corvette will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Volkswagen Golf.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Chevrolet Corvette | 1981 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Volkswagen |
| Model | Corvette | Golf |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1981 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5970 cc | 1093 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 395 HP | 49 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 544 Nm | 79 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4400 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1750 kg | 750 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 3830 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1850 mm | 1620 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1250 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2690 mm | 2410 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 68 L | 45 L |
