2009 Chevrolet Corvette vs. 1982 Volkswagen Rabbit

To start off, 2009 Chevrolet Corvette is newer by 27 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1982 Volkswagen Rabbit. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1982 Volkswagen Rabbit would be higher. At 6,198 cc (8 cylinders), 2009 Chevrolet Corvette is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Chevrolet Corvette (430 HP @ 5900 RPM) has 341 more horse power than 1982 Volkswagen Rabbit. (89 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Chevrolet Corvette should accelerate faster than 1982 Volkswagen Rabbit. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Chevrolet Corvette weights approximately 361 kg more than 1982 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, 1982 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 (575 Nm @ 4600 RPM) has 440 more torque (in Nm) than 1982 Volkswagen Rabbit. (135 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2009 Chevrolet Corvette will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1982 Volkswagen Rabbit. 1982 Volkswagen Rabbit has automatic transmission and 2009 Chevrolet Corvette has manual transmission. 2009 Chevrolet Corvette will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1982 Volkswagen Rabbit will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

2009 Chevrolet Corvette 1982 Volkswagen Rabbit
Make Chevrolet Volkswagen
Model Corvette Rabbit
Year Released 2009 1982
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 6198 cc 1781 cc
Engine Cylinders 8 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type V in-line
Horse Power 430 HP 89 HP
Engine RPM 5900 RPM 5000 RPM
Torque 575 Nm 135 Nm
Torque RPM 4600 RPM 3000 RPM
Engine Bore Size 103.3 mm 79.5 mm
Engine Stroke Size 92 mm 86.4 mm
Fuel Type Gasoline Gasoline
Drive Type Rear Front
Transmission Type Manual Automatic
Number of Seats 2 seats 4 seats
Vehicle Weight 1261 kg 900 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