Watch A Corvette Stingray Drag Race A Ford Mustang Dark Horse: Video

The rivalry between Ford and Chevy is alive and well, playing out on the regular at drag strips and racetracks around the nation. Although we’ve seen the Corvette-versus-Mustang matchup in the past, these days, it’s looking a little different. Chalk it up to the mid-engine layout for the Vette, introduced with the latest eighth generation. However, Ford has its own tricks up its sleeve courtesy of the Mustang Dark Horse. So – which will win in a race?

That’s the question that’ll be answered in the following episode of Edmunds U-Drags. For those that don’t know, the U-Drags format includes a quarter-mile drag race followed a 180-degree turn and a sprint back to the start/finish line. The test is meant to evaluate acceleration, braking, handling, and grip, providing a simple, yet comprehensive overview of what a machine is capable of.

Then we have the numbers. Over in the GM camp, the C8 Corvette Stingray is equipped with the naturally aspirated 6.2L V8 LT2 gasoline engine, which is rated at 495 horsepower and 470 pound-feet of torque. Output is harnessed by an eight-speed automatic DCT co-developed with Tremec, while curb weight is estimated at 3,662 pounds.

Meanwhile, the Mustang Dark Horse is arriving at the party with a 5.0L V8 making bit more horsepower at 500 ponies, but less torque at 418 pound-feet. The ‘Stang also has a 10-speed automatic transmission, while curb weight is considerably heftier than the ‘Vette at 4,016 pounds.

Looking at the spec sheets, the Corvette has several key advantages, such as a mid-engine layout, less weight, and a sophisticated launch control system paired with a dual-clutch transmission. Meanwhile, the Mustang lacks launch control and will likely struggle off the line.

Despite the Mustang’s superior horsepower (not to mention its uber-sticky Pirelli P Zero Trofeo RS rubber), the Corvette looks to have the clear edge. That said, the real world can throw a curveball from time to time, so hit play on the video below to see exactly how this one plays out: