2002 BMW M3 vs. 1998 Chevrolet Corvette

To start off, 2002 BMW M3 is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Chevrolet Corvette. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Chevrolet Corvette would be higher. At 5,737 cc (8 cylinders), 1998 Chevrolet Corvette is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 BMW M3 (444 HP @ 7400 RPM) has 167 more horse power than 1998 Chevrolet Corvette. (277 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2002 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 1998 Chevrolet Corvette. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Chevrolet Corvette weights approximately 472 kg more than 2002 BMW M3.

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 BMW M3 (480 Nm) has 43 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Chevrolet Corvette. (437 Nm). This means 2002 BMW M3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Chevrolet Corvette. 1998 Chevrolet Corvette has automatic transmission and 2002 BMW M3 has manual transmission. 2002 BMW M3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1998 Chevrolet Corvette will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

2002 BMW M3 1998 Chevrolet Corvette
Make BMW Chevrolet
Model M3 Corvette
Year Released 2002 1998
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 3997 cc 5737 cc
Engine Cylinders 8 cylinders 8 cylinders
Engine Type V V
Valves per Cylinder 4 valves 2 valves
Horse Power 444 HP 277 HP
Engine RPM 7400 RPM 5200 RPM
Torque 480 Nm 437 Nm
Drive Type Rear Rear
Transmission Type Manual Automatic
Vehicle Weight 1100 kg 1572 kg
Wheelbase Size 2890 mm 2860 mm