Volkswagen Type 2

vs

Volkswagen Corrado

Germany vs Germany — 1950 vs 1988

Volkswagen Type 2 (1950)
Volkswagen Corrado (1988)
Specifications
Type 2 Samba Bus (23-Window)Corrado VR6
Horsepower42 hp190 hp
Torque75 lb-ft181 lb-ft
Engine Size1,493 cc2,861 cc
0-60 mph0.0 sec6.7 sec
Top Speed65 mph146 mph
¼ Mile0.0 sec15.2 sec
Wheelbase2,400 mm2,472 mm
Length4,280 mm4,290 mm
Units Produced97,521
Value (Excellent)$400,000$28,000
Collectibility5/105/10
Rarity7/106/10
The Verdict

The 1988 Volkswagen Corrado VR6 emerges ahead in most objective measures, offering more power, higher top speed, better value. The 1950 Volkswagen Type 2 Samba Bus (23-Window) counters with quicker acceleration, but the numbers favor its rival. Still, both are remarkable machines, and the final choice often comes down to which driving experience speaks to you.

Overview

The 1950 Volkswagen Type 2 Samba Bus (23-Window) and 1988 Volkswagen Corrado VR6 share a manufacturer in Volkswagen, but that's where the similarities get interesting. These two models reveal the versatility and ambition of the Volkswagen brand. The 1988 Volkswagen Corrado VR6 holds a clear advantage in raw power with 190 hp compared to 42 hp, a 148-horsepower difference that shapes the driving experience. Under the hood, the contrast is notable: the Volkswagen Type 2 uses a Flat-4 OHV 8V displacing 1,493 cc, while the Volkswagen Corrado relies on a VR6 SOHC 12V with 2,861 cc. In the sprint to 60 mph, the 1950 Volkswagen Type 2 Samba Bus (23-Window) edges ahead at 0.0 seconds versus 6.7 seconds. On the collector market, the 1950 Volkswagen Type 2 Samba Bus (23-Window) commands a significant premium over the 1988 Volkswagen Corrado VR6, reflecting differences in prestige and rarity.