2009 BMW M3 vs. 1982 Chevrolet Corvette
To start off, 2009 BMW M3 is newer by 27 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1982 Chevrolet Corvette. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1982 Chevrolet Corvette would be higher. At 5,733 cc (8 cylinders), 1982 Chevrolet Corvette is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 BMW M3 (414 HP) has 214 more horse power than 1982 Chevrolet Corvette. (200 HP). In normal driving conditions, 2009 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 1982 Chevrolet Corvette. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 BMW M3 weights approximately 356 kg more than 1982 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, 2009 BMW M3 (400 Nm @ 3900 RPM) has 15 more torque (in Nm) than 1982 Chevrolet Corvette. (385 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 2009 BMW M3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1982 Chevrolet Corvette.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 BMW M3 | 1982 Chevrolet Corvette | |
| Make | BMW | Chevrolet |
| Model | M3 | Corvette |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1982 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3999 cc | 5733 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 414 HP | 200 HP |
| Torque | 400 Nm | 385 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3900 RPM | 2800 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 12.0:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1810 kg | 1454 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4620 mm | 4710 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1230 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2500 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 91 L |
