1997 Chevrolet Corvette vs. 1979 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 1997 Chevrolet Corvette is newer by 18 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1979 Volkswagen Golf. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 Volkswagen Golf would be higher. At 5,737 cc (8 cylinders), 1997 Chevrolet Corvette is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Chevrolet Corvette (277 HP) has 218 more horse power than 1979 Volkswagen Golf. (59 HP). In normal driving conditions, 1997 Chevrolet Corvette should accelerate faster than 1979 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Chevrolet Corvette weights approximately 815 kg more than 1979 Volkswagen Golf. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1997 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 1997 Chevrolet Corvette. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1979 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, 1997 Chevrolet Corvette (437 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 342 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Volkswagen Golf. (95 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1997 Chevrolet Corvette will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Volkswagen Golf.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Chevrolet Corvette | 1979 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Volkswagen |
| Model | Corvette | Golf |
| Year Released | 1997 | 1979 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5737 cc | 1272 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 277 HP | 59 HP |
| Torque | 437 Nm | 95 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1620 kg | 805 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4580 mm | 3820 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1880 mm | 1620 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1220 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2410 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 117 L | 45 L |
