The C8 Corvette Z06 has the spec sheet to take on the world’s fastest performance vehicles, including some of Europe’s heaviest hitters. However, spec sheets don’t mean much in the face of real-world tests. Now, we’re seeing what happens when the Z06 faces off with the Mercedes-AMG GT 63.
In this head-to-head video, a 2024 Chevy Corvette Z06 lines up with a 2024 Mercedes-AMG GT 63 on Edmunds’ U-Drag course. The comparison includes a quarter-mile drag race, heavy braking, a 180-degree turn, and a return sprint to the finish, providing an in-depth performance test.
Let’s start with the specs. Over in Chevy’s corner, the C8 Corvette Z06 throws down with 670 horsepower and 460 pound-feet of torque thanks to the naturally aspirated 5.5L V8 LT6. Output hits the pavement through the rear wheels via a set of Michelin Pilot Sport 4S tires. Curb weight is set at 3,715 pounds.
Meanwhile, the AMG GT 63 is bringing the heat with 577 horsepower and 590 pound-feet of torque thanks to its twin-turbo V8. Notably, the German rocket has the traction advantage thanks to all-wheel drivetrain and four Michelin Pilot Sport S5 tires, although it’s also at a weight disadvantage, tipping the scales at 4,238 pounds, as compared to the Z06’s 3,715 pounds.
While both machines are impressive, the way they approach the business of going fast is quite different. The Corvette Z06 impresses with a visceral V8 howl and deft handling, delivering a track-focused experience.
Meanwhile, the AMG GT 63 is billed as a more luxurious grand tourer, holding its own with all-wheel-drive grip while coddling passengers with comfort. That said, while the Merc has impressive performance, especially for a front-engine car, it’s not nearly as track focused as the C8 Z06.
These differences show in the race. While the Z06 struggles to get the power down off the line, it quickly makes up for it with impressive braking performance, overtaking the Mercedes in the corners.
Check out the full video below to see how this battle plays out:
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That Z06 is one bad a$$ machine. It will be interesting to see the ZR 1 do the U-drags. Just imagine if GM invested the time and money into the Camaro like they did for the Corvette. What could have been.
The Camaro isn't the "Heavy-Hitter" that the 'Vette is. The 'Vette is on another level compared to Camaro, Mustang, Hellcat, etc...
Bad bob - it could have been if GM invested the same amount of money for R&D as the Vette. They could have made it a V8 only car, but offer different variations. They could have also used a lot of the same technology from the Vette. I own a 2015 ZL1 and it is a great car, they seemed to give up with the 6th gen after year 3.
I'd take the GT63 over the Z06 as it has AWD and better looks inside and out.
I was thinking the E-ray would be the comp for this as it has AWD, but can't go wrong with with either.
For the price you can’t beat the performance 🇺🇸🇺🇸🇺🇸🇺🇸🇺🇸🇺🇸
"However, spec sheets don’t mean much in the face of real-world tests."
Even 1/4 mile in a straight line isn't particularly real-world or endurance based. Now, 24 hours at Le Mans or Nürburgring...
Hmm, the MB seems pretty quick for a front engined car. Always kind of wondered why GM didn’t use the C-7 chassis for the basis of a grand touring car