1997 BMW S3 vs. 1987 Chevrolet Corvette
To start off, 1997 BMW S3 is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1987 Chevrolet Corvette. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1987 Chevrolet Corvette would be higher. At 5,733 cc (8 cylinders), 1987 Chevrolet Corvette is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 BMW S3 (260 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 18 more horse power than 1987 Chevrolet Corvette. (242 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 BMW S3 should accelerate faster than 1987 Chevrolet Corvette. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1987 Chevrolet Corvette weights approximately 70 kg more than 1997 BMW S3.
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, 1987 Chevrolet Corvette (454 Nm) has 124 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 BMW S3. (330 Nm). This means 1987 Chevrolet Corvette will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 BMW S3.
Compare all specifications:
1997 BMW S3 | 1987 Chevrolet Corvette | |
Make | BMW | Chevrolet |
Model | S3 | Corvette |
Year Released | 1997 | 1987 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 3201 cc | 5733 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | V |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
Horse Power | 260 HP | 242 HP |
Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 4000 RPM |
Torque | 330 Nm | 454 Nm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 10.2:1 | 9.5:1 |
Top Speed | 258 km/hour | 242 km/hour |
Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 4 seats | 2 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 1368 kg | 1438 kg |
Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1810 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1190 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2450 mm |