1997 Chevrolet Corvette vs. 2003 Chevrolet SS
To start off, 2003 Chevrolet SS is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Chevrolet Corvette. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Chevrolet Corvette would be higher. At 6,000 cc (8 cylinders), 2003 Chevrolet SS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Chevrolet SS (430 HP) has 85 more horse power than 1997 Chevrolet Corvette. (345 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Chevrolet SS should accelerate faster than 1997 Chevrolet Corvette. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Chevrolet SS weights approximately 265 kg more than 1997 Chevrolet Corvette. 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 SS (583 Nm) has 108 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Chevrolet Corvette. (475 Nm). This means 2003 Chevrolet SS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Chevrolet Corvette. 2003 Chevrolet SS has automatic transmission and 1997 Chevrolet Corvette has manual transmission. 1997 Chevrolet Corvette will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2003 Chevrolet SS will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1997 Chevrolet Corvette | 2003 Chevrolet SS | |
Make | Chevrolet | Chevrolet |
Model | Corvette | SS |
Year Released | 1997 | 2003 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 5666 cc | 6000 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | V |
Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
Horse Power | 345 HP | 430 HP |
Torque | 475 Nm | 583 Nm |
Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1395 kg | 1660 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4570 mm | 5060 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1880 mm | 1940 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1220 mm | 1350 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2660 mm | 3080 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 72 L | 64 L |