1997 BMW M3 vs. 2006 Chevrolet Corvette
To start off, 2006 Chevrolet Corvette is newer by 9 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 6,998 cc (8 cylinders), 2006 Chevrolet Corvette is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Chevrolet Corvette (506 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 266 more horse power than 1997 BMW M3. (240 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Chevrolet Corvette should accelerate faster than 1997 BMW M3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Chevrolet Corvette weights approximately 151 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, 2006 Chevrolet Corvette (637 Nm) has 401 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 BMW M3. (236 Nm). This means 2006 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 | 2006 Chevrolet Corvette | |
| Make | BMW | Chevrolet |
| Model | M3 | Corvette |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2006 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3201 cc | 6998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 240 HP | 506 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 6300 RPM |
| Torque | 236 Nm | 637 Nm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 2 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1300 kg | 1451 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4470 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1930 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1250 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2690 mm |
