These exclusive photos of a Porsche 911 GT2 RS, recently caught by GM Authority spies, are proof positive that General Motors is still using the German supercar as a benchmark for an upcoming variant of the C8 Corvette.
The pictures were taken on the North-South Straightaway of the GM Milford Proving Ground in Michigan, shortly after a prototype of the Corvette C8 Z06 did a similar bout of runs.
| Model | Engine | Transmission | Drive Wheels | Power (hp / kW @ rpm) | Torque (lb-ft / Nm @ rpm) | 0-60 mph (sec.) | Top Speed (mph) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Chevrolet Corvette Z06 | Atmospheric 5.5L V8 | 8-speed DCT | RWD | 615 / 459 @ TBD (est.) | 450 / 611 @ TBD (est.) | TBD | TBD |
| Porsche 911 GT2 RS | Twin-turbo 3.8L H6 | 7-speed DCT | RWD | 700 / 515 @ 7000 | 553 / 750 @ 2500-4500 | 2.7 | 211 |
| Porsche 911 GT3 | Atmospheric 4.0L H6 | 7-speed DCT | RWD | 503 / 375 @ 8400 | 346 / 470 @ TBD | 3.2 | 197 |
With the help of twin turbocharging, the GT2 RS is rated at 700 horsepower and 553 pound-feet of torque. No figures have officially been revealed for the forthcoming C8 Z06, but the latest estimates are that its naturally aspirated 32-valve DOHC 5.5L V8 LT6 engine will produce 615 horsepower and between 450 and 480 pound-feet of torque.
Chevrolet undoubtedly has its reasons for paying such close attention to the GT2 RS, though the Porsche is certainly more powerful. It’s also worth noting that the 911 GT2 RS – which was priced to start at $240,000 – was discontinued some time ago.
A more obvious Corvette C8 Z06 rival within the 911 range is the upcoming 2022 Porsche 911 GT3. Its 4.0-liter engine is significantly smaller than the LT6, and its output, though enhanced by the ability to rev to very high engine speeds, is nevertheless lower at 503 horsepower and 346 pound-feet of torque. More importantly, it will be on sale at the same time as the C8 Z06 is expected to launch.
Although C8 Corvette Z06 pricing is currently a mystery, it will certainly be a great deal more affordable than either the GT3 or another European rival, the Lamborghini Huracan Performante.
The Z06 will be the first C8 Corvette to go on sale without the Stingray name. It will be followed by other variants including the C8 ZR1 and the hybrid C8 E-Ray and C8 Zora. All versions will be built at the GM Bowling Green plant in Kentucky. The Z06 is expected to make its debut in July.
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Comments
I think were looking at these ZR1 instead of the Z06. I think these Z06 is much farther along. Doesn’t make any sense too bench a car (Porsche 911 GT2 RS 700 TT HP Flat 6 engine) to a (600 + HP NA FPC LT6 V8 engine) C8 ZO6 ME Corvette.
The zr1 is
Better than the z06
THE PERFORMANCE IS RELEVANT
THAT’S WHAT THE CORVETTE IS ALL ABOUT
SINCE THE C8 Z51 CAN DO 0-60 IN 2.8 AND 1/4 MILE IN 11.2
(MOTORTREND AND CAR&DRIVER)
THE Z06 HAS TO BE COMPARED TO HIGHER END SPORTS CARS
Well, if that’s the case why not buy the Porsche, then?
Because the jellybean car 911 is overpriced and expensive to maintain.
I think too keep the weight down, on these (C8 Z06) there going to added carbon-fiber body panels too it. (Hood, Deck-lid, Roof, Doors, Chair-frames, floor-panels etc.). Also a lighter exhaust system (titanium).
Ford obtaining a benchmarking C8; Corvette having more than one Ferrari and Porsche for benchmarking: With these makers realizing what their customers are paying attention to, the average sports car driver in the USA and around the world will have never had it so good.