2004 Chevrolet Corvette vs. 1959 Chevrolet Corvair
To start off, 2004 Chevrolet Corvette is newer by 45 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1959 Chevrolet Corvair. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1959 Chevrolet Corvair would be higher. At 5,968 cc (8 cylinders), 2004 Chevrolet Corvette is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Chevrolet Corvette (405 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 324 more horse power than 1959 Chevrolet Corvair. (81 HP @ 4400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Chevrolet Corvette should accelerate faster than 1959 Chevrolet Corvair. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Chevrolet Corvette weights approximately 290 kg more than 1959 Chevrolet Corvair. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. 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.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Chevrolet Corvette | 1959 Chevrolet Corvair | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Chevrolet |
| Model | Corvette | Corvair |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1959 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Rear |
| Engine Size | 5968 cc | 2286 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 405 HP | 81 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1450 kg | 1160 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4570 mm | 4580 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1880 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1220 mm | 1310 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2660 mm | 2750 mm |
