1997 BMW S3 vs. 2003 Chevrolet Corvette
To start off, 2003 Chevrolet Corvette is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 BMW S3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 BMW S3 would be higher. At 5,968 cc (8 cylinders), 2003 Chevrolet Corvette is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Chevrolet Corvette (395 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 135 more horse power than 1997 BMW S3. (260 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Chevrolet Corvette should accelerate faster than 1997 BMW S3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Chevrolet Corvette weights approximately 102 kg more than 1997 BMW S3. 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, 2003 Chevrolet Corvette (543 Nm) has 213 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 BMW S3. (330 Nm). This means 2003 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 | 2003 Chevrolet Corvette | |
| Make | BMW | Chevrolet |
| Model | S3 | Corvette |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2003 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3201 cc | 5968 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 260 HP | 395 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 330 Nm | 543 Nm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.2:1 | 11.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 258 km/hour | 300 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 2 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1368 kg | 1470 kg |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1850 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1250 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2760 mm |
