2021 BMW 4 Series vs 2021 Chevrolet Corvette

The 2021 BMW 4 Series represents how, for better or worse, BMW has changed. The 4 Series name has been around since the 2014 model year when it was introduced for the former 3 Series coupe and convertible. Earlier two-door 3 Series models built BMW’s reputation, with excellent handling, smooth yet powerful engines, and understated styling.

The redesigned second-generation 4 Series departs dramatically from that template. It’s bigger and more luxurious, with garish styling and a greater reliance on technology for performance. The car’s rivals haven’t changed though. It still competes against the Audi A5, Mercedes-Benz C-Class, Lexus RC, and Infiniti Q60 for buyers willing to sacrifice a bit of practicality to make a fashion statement.

As before, the 4 Series is available in coupe and convertible body styles—the latter with a soft-top instead of the previous retractable hardtop. Both body styles are offered in four-cylinder 430i and six-cylinder M440i configurations, with high-performance M4 variants on the way. Rear-wheel drive is standard, with xDrive all-wheel drive optional (and mandatory on the M440i coupe). Our test car was a 430i xDrive coupe.

If you never drove one along a palm-lined California beach on a warm evening as the sun dips into the sea, it would be easy to dismiss the 2021 Chevrolet Corvette Convertible as money foolishly spent. But even though the Corvette Stingray Coupe comes with a removable targa roof panel that stows in the trunk, it can’t quite match the droptop for downright convenience or a thrillingly visceral driving experience. But you’ll give up a few things in exchange.

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