The automotive world is buzzing about the C8 Corvette Z06, and for good reason. Enthusiasts are eager to see how this American sports car stacks up against European benchmarks. Fortunately, Hagerty, known for their high-quality automotive content on YouTube, has delivered what might be the definitive C8 Z06 track review. Hosted by the charismatic Jason Cammisa, their latest video puts the Z06 head-to-head against formidable rivals: the Porsche 911 GT3 RS (992 generation) and the BMW M4 CSL (G82).
Corvette Z06 Track Performance Review Against Porsche 911 GT3 RS and BMW M4 CSL
Decoding the Lap Battle: C8 Z06 on the Track
We won’t divulge all the details of the Hagerty video – you should definitely watch it yourself – but we will highlight key takeaways for Corvette enthusiasts. This track test reaffirms the C8 Z06’s position as a serious contender, capable of challenging vehicles in a significantly higher price bracket. While the C8 Z06 represents the most expensive Corvette to date, its performance on the track proves its value relative to the competition.
A crucial aspect emphasized in the review is the importance of tires. The Z06 tested, equipped with the Z07 package, utilizes Michelin Pilot Sport Cup 2 R tires. These tires are essentially street-legal track tires, offering exceptional grip in dry conditions and when properly warmed up. Paired with the enhanced aerodynamics of the Z07 package, these tires enable the C8 Z06 to achieve unprecedented levels of grip for a Corvette. This tire and aero combination is key to unlocking the C8 Z06’s track prowess.
However, the review also fairly addresses the C8 Z06’s weight. As the heaviest car in this comparison, the added mass becomes noticeable during hard braking zones. This observation serves as constructive feedback for GM, perhaps inspiring future iterations of the Z06 focused on weight reduction and even more aggressive aerodynamics for track dominance. The quest for an even lighter, more track-focused Z06 is an exciting prospect for Corvette’s future.
For further exploration of the C8 Corvette Z06 and its capabilities, Hagerty offers additional videos. One video compares the Z06 against a non-RS Porsche GT3, highlighting the aerodynamic differences. Another showcases the blistering straight-line acceleration of the 2024 Corvette E-Ray, demonstrating the broader performance spectrum within the Corvette family.
Image Credit: Hagerty
