2021 BMW 4 Series vs 2021 Chevrolet Corvette

The 2021 BMW 4 Series coupe sparked conversations with its bold styling, particularly the massive twin-kidney grille, which BMW claimed improved engine cooling. While beauty is subjective, many found it challenging to appreciate the grille's aesthetics. The rest of the car adhered to typical BMW design, featuring standard LED headlights and taillights, and a familiar silhouette. Despite its controversial front end, the 4 Series boasted an aerodynamic design with a drag coefficient of 0.25, aided by Air Curtain intakes on the front bumper. Sharing a platform with the BMW 3 Series sedan, the 4 Series was slightly larger in dimensions, offering a clean and uncluttered interior with standard front sport seats. However, the interior materials, while decent, fell short of luxury standards, and the steering wheel's size seemed more fitting for a larger vehicle.

In contrast, the 2021 Chevrolet Corvette Convertible presented a striking design with its massive flying buttresses, offering a unique open-air experience. The power retractable hardtop operated seamlessly, enhancing the driving experience with amplified engine sounds. Opting for the convertible eliminated concerns about handling a targa roof panel, though it compromised rear visibility and the functionality of the rear camera mirror. Despite these drawbacks, the Corvette Convertible maintained the rewarding performance and exotic proportions of a mid-engined sports car. The Torch Red 2LT test car, equipped with various performance and aesthetic enhancements, garnered significant attention, though some details, particularly the rear-end design, were less appealing. Inside, the Corvette's cabin exuded a futuristic and technical vibe, though it lacked some premium finishes found in higher trims.

The 2021 BMW 4 Series offered two powertrains: the 430i model with a 2.0-litre turbocharged four-cylinder engine producing 255 horsepower and 294 pound-feet of torque, and the M440i with a 3.0-litre turbocharged inline-six generating 382 hp and 369 lb-ft of torque, featuring a 48-volt mild hybrid system. The 430i could accelerate from zero to 100 km/h in 5.6 seconds, while the M440i xDrive achieved it in 4.5 seconds. Despite these impressive figures, the driving experience was marred by a hesitant transmission and uninspiring engine sound. The optional Adaptive M Suspension and variable sport steering failed to deliver the expected engagement, leaving the driving experience somewhat lacklustre.

The 2021 Chevrolet Corvette, equipped with the optional Z51 Performance Package, delivered 495 horsepower and 470 pound-feet of torque from its 6.2-litre V8 engine. This power translated into exhilarating acceleration, pinning occupants to their seats. Despite its performance capabilities, the Corvette was surprisingly easy to drive daily, though reversing with the top down required caution. The eight-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission added character, and multiple driving modes allowed for customization. The Z51 Package enhanced driving enjoyment with features like Magnetic Ride Control, performance brakes, and an electronic limited-slip differential. The mid-engine layout contributed to its dynamic character, offering excellent forward visibility and satisfying handling.

The 2021 BMW 4 Series, while not the most practical, offered more front headroom and trunk space than its competitors. However, rear legroom and headroom were limited, making the rear seats suitable only for occasional use. The cockpit was well-designed, with an integrated infotainment touchscreen and thoughtful storage solutions. Visibility was excellent, enhancing the driving experience.

The 2021 Chevrolet Corvette's interior was characterized by its unique design, dominated by digital instrumentation and a squarish steering wheel. The GT2 seats provided comfort with premium Nappa leather upholstery, heating, and ventilation. While entry and exit could be challenging, the interior offered good storage space and a generous cargo capacity of 357 litres, accommodating multiple suitcases. The wireless smartphone charger was inconveniently placed, but overall, the interior was a blend of quality materials and distinctive design.

The 2021 BMW 4 Series featured the iDrive 7 infotainment system with an 8.8-inch touchscreen and optional Live Cockpit Professional with a 10.25-inch central touchscreen and a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster. The iDrive rotary controller facilitated easy navigation, complemented by wireless Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and Bluetooth connectivity. Additional features like a head-up display and wireless phone charging were available.

The 2021 Chevrolet Corvette boasted a 12-inch digital instrumentation display and an 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system angled toward the driver. The system included wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, dual smartphone pairing, and a 4G LTE WiFi hotspot. An upgraded version offered navigation and a 14-speaker Bose audio system. The Performance Data Recorder allowed for video recording and monitoring, enhancing the driving experience. Despite its high-tech features, the Corvette's systems were intuitive and user-friendly.

The 2021 BMW 4 Series lacked crash-test ratings from NHTSA and IIHS at the time. Standard safety features included lane-departure warning, forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, blind-spot monitoring, and rear cross-traffic alert. Adaptive cruise control with stop and go was available through an optional package.

The 2021 Chevrolet Corvette, while not focused on safety, offered Teen Driver technology, providing driving reports for young drivers. Chevrolet Connected Services, available with a subscription, included collision notification and emergency calling. Visibility enhancements like a front-facing camera and blind-spot monitoring were available on higher trims. However, advanced driving assistance systems were notably absent, emphasizing the Corvette's focus on driving engagement.