Porsche GT2 Compared to a Corvette Z06

What is the purpose of zero to sixty straight line comparisons, especially when the cars are not evenly matched in the first place? I think the answer depends on who is conducting the test. In the instance of this post, it’s Autocar and Chris Harris. Simply put, I think this type of test brings eye-balls to a web-site and helps to spark conversation and controversy amongst loyal readers. What other reason is there to compare a Porsche GT2 to a Corvette Z06 in a straight line speed test? Let me know what you think.

Take a look at the following video and you be the judge.

Let’s look at the following specs from MotorTrends review of the Porsche GT2 (as compared to the Corvette Z06).

0-60 mph
Porsche 911 GT2 3.4 sec (Porsche claims 3.7 seconds)
Chevrolet Corvette Z06 3.5 sec

Quarter mile
Porsche 911 GT2 11.4 sec @ 127.9 mph
Chevrolet Corvette Z06 11.5 sec @ 127.1 mph

Braking, 60-0 mph
Porsche 911 GT2 98 feet
Chevrolet Corvette Z06 104 feet

Weight
Porsche 911 GT2 3175lbs
Cheverolet Corvette Z06 3132 lbs

Horespower
Porsche 911 GT2 530 HP
Cheverolet Corvette Z06 505 HP

I admit, on paper, the cars are fairly close. However, even if you overlook the fact that the GT2 has 25 more HP, is rear-engined (helps traction off the line) and has a proper suspension, you can’t get past the fact that the GT2 is a purpose built track car from the days of “Win on Sunday, Sell on Monday” (the least of all those purposes is drag racing in a straight line).

Don’t get me wrong, the Corvette is a fantastic performing car (especially when you factor in the price differential) and this simply isn’t a fair or proper comparison. To me this is simply another instance of the media helping to perpetuate the legend that is Porsche. As you can tell from the image at the top of this page, comparisons like Porsche vs. Corvette have been going on for a long time and I don’t expect them to stop anytime soon. This is something I don’t have a problem with, for obvious reasons. What do you think?

Favorite Chris Harris quote from the video (in reference to the Corvette):

“The bonnet appears to end in a different time zone. It’s miles away.”

[Source: MotorTrend, Autocar]