At this point, there should be little doubt that the C8 Corvette Z06 is one helluva sports car, offering impressive performance capable of challenging the world’s best. However, when the opposition is modified, all bets are off. Now, we’re watching as a 2023 Corvette Z06 takes on a modified VW Golf GTI making 600 horsepower.
Once again coming to us from the folks at Hoonigan, the video is a “This vs. That” drag racing special featuring three rounds of heads-up, straight-line competition, plus walkarounds and specs for both vehicles.
If you’re still unfamiliar with the new C8 Corvette Z06, here’s a quick refresher. Mounted just behind the cabin, the C8 Z06 runs the naturally aspirated 5.5L V8 LT6 gasoline engine, which doles out an impressive 670 horsepower and 460 pound-feet of torque on its way to a head-spinning 8,600-rpm redline. Sent to the rear tires through an eight-speed dual-clutch transmission similar to that equipped by the C8 Corvette Stingray, the C8 Corvette Z06 can hit 60 mph in as little as 2.6 seconds.
That’s impressive, no matter which way you slice it. Which begs the question – how can a 1992 VW Golf GTI hang? Well, as expected, this VeeDub is anything but ordinary. Behind its brick-like front fascia, this GTI is rocking a turbocharged 2.8L V6 engine producing as much as 600 horsepower. All that muscle hits the ground through an all-wheel drivetrain and a six-speed manual transmission.
Indeed, it looks as though the Volkswagen has a few advantages here, starting with traction. Even with sticky rubber and a mid-engine layout, the Z06 will likely be fighting from a deficit out of the hole. The Volkswagen also has a weight advantage, weighing nearly 1,000 pounds less than the Z06. But the Corvette has its own ace up the sleeve, with the dual-clutch automatic quickly racing through the gears compared to the row-your-own six-speed in the GTI.
Which machine will walk away with the W? Hit play to find out:
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Comment
I drag raced, but not really in my Corvette. A C8 Corvette can do things , and at higher speeds that other cars will never so.