2009 Acura RL vs. 1997 Chevrolet Corvette
To start off, 2009 Acura RL is newer by 12 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. At 5,666 cc (8 cylinders), 1997 Chevrolet Corvette is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Chevrolet Corvette (345 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 49 more horse power than 2009 Acura RL. (296 HP @ 6300 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1997 Chevrolet Corvette should accelerate faster than 2009 Acura RL. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Acura RL weights approximately 457 kg more than 1997 Chevrolet Corvette.
Because 2009 Acura RL is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1997 Chevrolet Corvette. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 Acura RL will offer significantly more control. 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 (475 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 204 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Acura RL. (271 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 1997 Chevrolet Corvette will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Acura RL. 2009 Acura RL has automatic transmission and 1997 Chevrolet Corvette has manual transmission. 1997 Chevrolet Corvette will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2009 Acura RL will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Acura RL | 1997 Chevrolet Corvette | |
| Make | Acura | Chevrolet |
| Model | RL | Corvette |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1997 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3664 cc | 5666 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 296 HP | 345 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 271 Nm | 475 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.2:1 | 10.1:1 |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1852 kg | 1395 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4980 mm | 4570 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1220 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2810 mm | 2660 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 73 L | 72 L |
