2009 Chevrolet Corvette vs. 1978 Volkswagen Rabbit
To start off, 2009 Chevrolet Corvette is newer by 31 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Volkswagen Rabbit. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Volkswagen Rabbit would be higher. At 6,162 cc (8 cylinders), 2009 Chevrolet Corvette is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Chevrolet Corvette (431 HP @ 5900 RPM) has 361 more horse power than 1978 Volkswagen Rabbit. (70 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Chevrolet Corvette should accelerate faster than 1978 Volkswagen Rabbit. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Chevrolet Corvette weights approximately 772 kg more than 1978 Volkswagen Rabbit. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2009 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 2009 Chevrolet Corvette. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1978 Volkswagen Rabbit, 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, 2009 Chevrolet Corvette (586 Nm @ 4600 RPM) has 484 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Volkswagen Rabbit. (102 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2009 Chevrolet Corvette will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Volkswagen Rabbit.
Compare all specifications:
2009 Chevrolet Corvette | 1978 Volkswagen Rabbit | |
Make | Chevrolet | Volkswagen |
Model | Corvette | Rabbit |
Year Released | 2009 | 1978 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 6162 cc | 1457 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | in-line |
Horse Power | 431 HP | 70 HP |
Engine RPM | 5900 RPM | 5800 RPM |
Torque | 586 Nm | 102 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4600 RPM | 3500 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 103.3 mm | 79.5 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 92 mm | 73.4 mm |
Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Vehicle Weight | 1582 kg | 810 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 3950 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1850 mm | 1620 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1250 mm | 1420 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2690 mm | 2410 mm |