1997 BMW M3 vs. 2002 Chevrolet Corvette
To start off, 2002 Chevrolet Corvette is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 BMW M3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 BMW M3 would be higher. At 5,664 cc (8 cylinders), 2002 Chevrolet Corvette is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Chevrolet Corvette (339 HP @ 5400 RPM) has 99 more horse power than 1997 BMW M3. (240 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2002 Chevrolet Corvette should accelerate faster than 1997 BMW M3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Chevrolet Corvette weights approximately 220 kg more than 1997 BMW M3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. 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, 2002 Chevrolet Corvette (483 Nm) has 247 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 BMW M3. (236 Nm). This means 2002 Chevrolet Corvette will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 BMW M3.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 BMW M3 | 2002 Chevrolet Corvette | |
| Make | BMW | Chevrolet |
| Model | M3 | Corvette |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2002 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3201 cc | 5664 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 240 HP | 339 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 236 Nm | 483 Nm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 2 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1300 kg | 1520 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4570 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1880 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1220 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2950 mm |
