USA vs Japan — 1963 vs 1965
| Corvette C2 Sting Ray Coupe | Sports 800 UP15 | |
|---|---|---|
| Horsepower | 360 hp | 45 hp |
| Torque | 352 lb-ft | 42 lb-ft |
| Engine Size | 5,359 cc | 790 cc |
| 0-60 mph | 5.6 sec | 19.5 sec |
| Top Speed | 143 mph | 96 mph |
| ¼ Mile | 14.1 sec | 21.2 sec |
| Weight | 3,050 lbs | 1,279 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 2,489 mm | 2,000 mm |
| Length | 4,445 mm | 3,580 mm |
| Units Produced | 117,964 | 3,131 |
| Original MSRP | $4,252 | — |
| Value (Excellent) | $250,000 | $120,000 |
| Collectibility | 10/10 | 8/10 |
| Rarity | 5/10 | 9/10 |
On balance, the 1963 Chevrolet Corvette C2 Sting Ray Coupe makes a stronger case on paper with more power, quicker acceleration, higher top speed. However, the 1965 Toyota Sports 800 UP15 counters with lighter weight, greater rarity, and its appeal extends beyond mere numbers. Choose the 1963 Chevrolet Corvette C2 Sting Ray Coupe for outright capability, or the 1965 Toyota Sports 800 UP15 for a more distinctive ownership experience.
The rivalry between USA and Japan automotive industries has produced legendary matchups, and the 1963 Chevrolet Corvette C2 Sting Ray Coupe versus 1965 Toyota Sports 800 UP15 is among the most fascinating. These two cars represent the best of their national engineering schools. The 1963 Chevrolet Corvette C2 Sting Ray Coupe holds a clear advantage in raw power with 360 hp compared to 45 hp, a 315-horsepower difference that shapes the driving experience. Under the hood, the contrast is notable: the Chevrolet Corvette uses a V8 OHV (small-block) displacing 5,359 cc, while the Toyota Sports 800 relies on a Flat-2 OHV with 790 cc. In the sprint to 60 mph, the 1963 Chevrolet Corvette C2 Sting Ray Coupe edges ahead at 5.6 seconds versus 19.5 seconds. The Toyota Sports 800 carries a weight advantage, tipping the scales 1771 lbs lighter. Rarity plays a significant role here — with only 3,131 units built, the 1965 Toyota Sports 800 UP15 is considerably scarcer than the Chevrolet Corvette's 117,964 examples. Both trade at comparable values on the collector market, making the choice between them largely one of personal preference. From a collectibility standpoint, the 1963 Chevrolet Corvette C2 Sting Ray Coupe rates higher among enthusiasts and auction houses.