The 670-hp Z06 and the 911 GT3 with its flat-six screamer are two radically takes on different ideas. Here's what's great about each.

2023 chevrolet corvette z06 vs 2022 porsche 911 gt3: how they compare

Listen to this article

Electrification is the future of the auto industry, but friends, things are still pretty damn good in the world of combustion power. If anything, the last hurrah of ICE is yielding some of the best performance cars yet. And we need look no further than the new 2023 Chevrolet Corvette Z06 and the latest Porsche 911 GT3.

By some happy coincidence, I found myself behind the wheel of the 911 GT3, in Touring form, just a couple weeks before I attended the first drive program for the new Z06. So while this isn’t a direct, one-to-one comparison, to paraphrase an old colleague, “Some people like Coney dogs, some people like currywurst. Let’s talk about what’s great with each.”

2023 chevrolet corvette z06 vs 2022 porsche 911 gt3: how they compare
2023 chevrolet corvette z06 vs 2022 porsche 911 gt3: how they compare

Common Approaches, Different Results

The 911 GT3 and the Corvette Z06 are similar in spirit, drawing on the motorsports background of their respective automakers to up the ante of on-road performance. That means new, model-specific engines that are the headliners in a star-studded lineup.

For the 911, a 4.0-liter flat-six shared with the GT3 Cup racer sits in place of a twin-turbocharged 3.0-liter. A six-speed manual is standard, while Porsche’s excellent seven-speed dual-clutch gearbox is a no-cost option that is available on the Touring model for the first time (and was fitted to my tester). Its 502 horsepower and 346 pound-feet of torque is ample, but holy moly, the real headline is the epic 9,000-rpm redline.

The Z06’s powertrain is, somehow, even more race-focused. The new LT6, a naturally aspirated 5.5-liter V8 with a flat-plane crank, has spent several seasons motivating the Corvette C8.R racer in the IMSA WeatherTech Sports Car Championship and per Chevy (grains of salt), the only real divergences between the race engine and the road engine are down to regulations.

The engine share a basic architecture and subsystems, although the production LT6 enjoys a higher redline and more power: 670 hp and 460 lb-ft, along with an 8,600-rpm redline. Unlike the GT3, an eight-speed dual-clutch is the only way to fly with the Z06, which might automatically rule it out with purists.

Both cars adopt firmer suspensions, with the 911 going for a double-wishbone front derived from Porsche’s racing efforts. The Z06, meanwhile, uses a trim-specific tune for its magnetic dampers. Lighter wheels and available carbon-ceramics are the order of the day, and can dramatically reduce unsprung weight. Mechanical grip improves too – the Z06 has the widest wheel/tire package ever fitted to the Corvette and is available with ultra-sticky Michelin Cup 2R tires. The 911 also adds wider tires, with a standard high-performance summer compound. Street-legal track tires are also available on the GT3 for the first time outside the RS line.

Neither car goes hog-wild with their cabin, though. And while there is more extreme exterior styling, the GT3 Touring and the standard Z06 are only subtly different from their lesser counterparts. The unfamiliar will know something is up with either of these cars, but it’ll take a fan to pick them out from the herd. The non-Touring GT3 trim ups the ante with a huge rear wing, while the Z06’s available Carbon Aero package adds a meaty front splitter, vehicle-spanning underside spoiler, and its own massive wing. Porsche claims downforce is up 50 percent over the previous GT3, while Chevy says the Z06 will generate over 700 pounds of downforce at 186 mph.

2023 chevrolet corvette z06 vs 2022 porsche 911 gt3: how they compare
2023 chevrolet corvette z06 vs 2022 porsche 911 gt3: how they compare

What You Should Drive On The Road

To be clear, both cars work shockingly well in the real world. For owners in warmer climes, they shouldn’t even hesitate to daily a Z06 or 911 GT3 Touring. But while the Corvette’s magnetic dampers provide a better, more comfortable ride, the 911’s narrower tires (255 front/315 rear versus 275 front/345 rear on the Z06) lead to a slight reduction in road noise.

But the main reason the 911 works every day is down to its cabin – there’s simply far, far more room. The Z06, like all C8 Corvettes, has an incessantly snug cabin and limited space for stuff. The Corvette’s trump card, though, is the available hardtop convertible model and the removable roof panel on the Coupe, so every Z06 has an inherent open-air ability. Those differences aside, these two cars are remarkably close in real-world usability.

2023 chevrolet corvette z06 vs 2022 porsche 911 gt3: how they compare
2023 chevrolet corvette z06 vs 2022 porsche 911 gt3: how they compare
2023 chevrolet corvette z06 vs 2022 porsche 911 gt3: how they compare
2023 chevrolet corvette z06 vs 2022 porsche 911 gt3: how they compare

What You Should Drive On The Track

Like their real-world use cases, the Z06 and 911 GT3 are closely matched on the track. But since I only drove the Corvette on a closed course, I have to give it the nod here, even if there is an asterisk. The Z06 is at its very best and most distinctive not in base form, but with the optional Z07 and Carbon Aero packages, which add around $15,000 to the starting price. Aside from the 911’s carbon-ceramic brakes (which at $9,210 cost more than the entire $8,995 Z07 package), there isn’t anything to add to the GT3.

So equipped, the Z06 is both wildly capable and surprisingly accessible. Thanks to the excellent Performance Traction Management system, it’s easy to tweak just how lairy the Z06 will get on the track without removing the safety net entirely. On the flip side, and while I only drove it on public roads, the 911 feels like the more focused performer. There are just three driving modes, and the stability control is less configurable.

The GT3 also feels racier when you aren’t going hard. The stiff, heavy brake pedal is a reminder that pro drivers are real athletes, and the steering feels better in just about every situation. The Z06’s tiller lacks feedback and even on the track, feels a little too low in effort. The GT3 weights up naturally and demands some physicality – it’s fun in a more analog, serious way.

2023 chevrolet corvette z06 vs 2022 porsche 911 gt3: how they compare
2023 chevrolet corvette z06 vs 2022 porsche 911 gt3: how they compare

If You Have To Make This Decision, Count Yourself Lucky

There’s really no bad choice between these two. And while you shouldn’t let objective things like price drive you to one camp or the other, there’s no getting around the Z06’s more affordable price. Starting at $106,695, including $1,395 destination charge, the Z06 is an entire base Stingray less than the $172,450 (including $1,450 destination and $1,300 gas-guzzler) 911 GT3. That said, the 911 is pretty fantastic out of the box, aside from the $9,210 charge for carbon-ceramic brakes. The Z06, meanwhile, has three separate trims, and basically requires an additional $15,000 to reach its ultimate form, with the Z07 and Carbon Aero packages.

The Z06 wows with its mid-engine form, flat-plane engine, surprising on-road comfort, and impressive accessibility. The 911 GT3 feels more like a race car – firm and serious, but absolutely engaging even in everyday conditions. If you have to choose between these cars, just know I envy you on a deep and everlasting level.

Specifications 2023 Chevrolet Corvette Z06 2022 Porsche 911 GT3 Touring
Engine: 5.5-liter V8 4.0-liter H6
Output: 670 Horsepower / 460 Pound-Feet 502 Horsepower / 346 Pound-Feet
Transmission: Eight-Speed Dual-Clutch Seven-Speed Dual-Clutch
Drive Type: Rear-Wheel Drive Rear-Wheel Drive
0-60 MPH: 2.6 Seconds 3.7 Seconds
Top Speed: 189 MPH 197 MPH
Efficiency: TBD TBD
Weight: 3,434 Pounds 3,164 Pounds
Seating Capacity: 2 2
Cargo Volume: TBD 4.6 Cubic Feet
Base Price: $105,300 + $1,395 Destination $169,700 + $1,450 Destination

Keyword: 2023 Chevrolet Corvette Z06 Vs 2022 Porsche 911 GT3: How They Compare

CAR'S NEWS RELATED

Recounting the 2023 Icons of Porsche Event

Image: Porsche Image: Porsche Image: Porsche Image: Porsche Image: Porsche NewsBy: Ryan De Villiers Contributor Juan Miguel Luis Beco reports on the largest car show in the Gulf Region, Icons of Porsche. Image: Porsche The Gulf is well known for its excessive wealth, and associated spoils. Although, places such ...

View more: Recounting the 2023 Icons of Porsche Event

Hybrid implementation could lure third OEM to IndyCar – Miles

Honda is one of two engine manufacturers for IndyCar. Photo: Kevin Dejewski Mark Miles, President and CEO of Penske Entertainment Corp., has stated his belief that a successful implementation of IndyCar’s hybrid system could help to lure additional engine manufacturers into the series. The new hybrid components are set ...

View more: Hybrid implementation could lure third OEM to IndyCar – Miles

New Porsche Panamera revealed – South African pricing and launch date

Everything new Price Porsche Panamera Turbo E-Hybrid Porsche Panamera 4 The new Porsche Panamera is arriving in South Africa in the first quarter of 2024 with three models available starting at R2,216,000. Now in its third generation, the luxury performance sedan strikes a sportier appearance than ever before and ...

View more: New Porsche Panamera revealed – South African pricing and launch date

New Porsche Panamera Revealed with Trick Suspension and E-Hybrid Power

Porsche has lifted the veil on its third generation Panamera, with the luxurious grand touring sedan picking up new suspension hardware, revised styling inside and out, more equipment and a range of more potent E-Hybrid powertrains. For its proportions, the Panamera measures in at 5,052mm long, 1,937mm wide and stands ...

View more: New Porsche Panamera Revealed with Trick Suspension and E-Hybrid Power

Porsche’s “Road to Le Mans. The Film” Documentary is a Must-Watch

Image: Porsche Image: Porsche NewsBy: Ryan De Villiers Porsche’s “Road to Le Mans. The Flim” is a 90-minute documentary which recounts the racing journey of Michael Fassbender and Porsche from 2018 to 2023. The film culminates in a recap of the 100th anniversary of the 24-Hours of Le Mans ...

View more: Porsche’s “Road to Le Mans. The Film” Documentary is a Must-Watch

Here's the new third-generation Porsche Panamera

Here’s the new third-generation Porsche Panamera We promise this really is the new third-generation Porsche Panamera. Porsche has reverted to its classic incremental design approach for the switch from G2 to G3 (hope that pleases the model code fans out there), although there are some subtle styling differences if you ...

View more: Here's the new third-generation Porsche Panamera

3rd-gen Porsche Panamera priced at Rs 1.68 crore in India

Currently, Porsche has only listed the Panamera V6 on its Indian website. The third-generation Porsche Panamera made its global debut earlier this week. The new model is priced at Rs 1.68 crore in India, and bookings are set to commence soon. The new Panamera gets subtle styling changes that ...

View more: 3rd-gen Porsche Panamera priced at Rs 1.68 crore in India

Porsche Carrera Cup – Gold Coast Race Two Update

Motorsport Australia Investigatory Tribunal – Porsche Carrera Cup Motorsport Australia has released the findings of an Investigatory Tribunal into the outcome of Race Two of the Porsche Paynter Dixon Carrera Cup at the Gold Coast 500 in October. Earlier this week, Motorsport Australia initiated the Investigatory Tribunal to consider ...

View more: Porsche Carrera Cup – Gold Coast Race Two Update

Four Of The Finest From Exciting Porsche Japan

Da Costa’s three-minute London penalty stands as Porsche’s appeal rejected

Porsche Panamera Pricing for South Africa

Next-gen Ford Mustang – The competitors at R1.5 million

Porsche Kills The Panamera Wagon Because Few People Bought One

A farewell to GTE, part two: Ferrari, Ford, Porsche and Dodge

Porsche Unveils Its Third-Generation Panamera

Unique 2024 Porsche Panamera Turbo Has Two-Tone Paint With Real Gold

2024 Porsche Panamera Debuts With More Hybrid Power, Fancy Active Suspension

Review: Porsche Panamera Turbo E-Hybrid

New-Generation 2024 Porsche Panamera Gets Updated Styling, Powertrains, Technologies

The 2024 Porsche Panamera Has A Wild New Active Suspension

OTHER CAR NEWS

; Top List in the World https://www.pinterest.com/newstopcar/pins/
Top Best Sushi Restaurants in SeoulTop Best Caribbean HoneymoonsTop Most Beautiful Islands in PeruTop Best Outdoor Grill BrandsTop Best Global Seafood RestaurantsTop Foods to Boost Your Immune SystemTop Best Foods to Fight HemorrhoidsTop Foods That Pack More Potassium Than a BananaTop Best Healthy Foods to Gain Weight FastTop Best Cosmetic Brands in the U.STop Best Destinations for Food Lovers in EuropeTop Best Foods High in Vitamin ATop Best Foods to Lower Your Blood SugarTop Best Things to Do in LouisianaTop Best Cities to Visit in New YorkTop Best Makeup Addresses In PennsylvaniaTop Reasons to Visit NorwayTop Most Beautiful Islands In The WorldTop Best Law Universities in the WorldTop Richest Sportsmen In The WorldTop Biggest Aquariums In The WorldTop Best Peruvian Restaurants In MiamiTop Best Road Trips From MiamiTop Best Places to Visit in MarylandTop Best Places to Visit in North CarolinaTop Best Electric Cars For KidsTop Best Swedish Brands in The USTop Best Skincare Brands in AmericaTop Best American Lipstick BrandsTop Michelin-starred Restaurants in MiamiTop Best Secluded Getaways From MiamiTop Best Things To Do On A Rainy Day In MiamiTop Most Instagrammable Places In MiamiTop Interesting Facts about FlorenceTop Facts About The First Roman Emperor - AugustusTop Best Japanese FoodsTop Most Beautiful Historical Sites in IsraelTop Best Places To Visit In Holy SeeTop Best Hawaiian IslandsTop Reasons to Visit PortugalTop Best Hotels In L.A. With Free Wi-FiTop Best Scenic Drives in MiamiTop Best Vegan Restaurants in BerlinTop Most Interesting Attractions In WalesTop Health Benefits of a Vegan DietTop Best Thai Restaurant in Las VegasTop Most Beautiful Forests in SwitzerlandTop Best Global Universities in GermanyTop Most Beautiful Lakes in GuyanaTop Best Things To Do in IdahoTop Things to Know Before Traveling to North MacedoniaTop Best German Sunglasses BrandsTop Highest Mountains In FranceTop Biggest Hydroelectric Plants in AmericaTop Best Spa Hotels in NYCTop The World's Scariest BridgeTop Largest Hotels In AmericaTop Most Famous Festivals in JordanTop Best European Restaurants in MunichTop Best Japanese Hiking Boot BrandsTop Best Universities in PolandTop Best Tips for Surfing the Web Safely and AnonymouslyTop Most Valuable Football Clubs in EuropeTop Highest Mountains In ColombiaTop Real-Life Characters of Texas RisingTop Best Beaches in GuatelamaTop Things About DR Congo You Should KnowTop Best Korean Reality & Variety ShowsTop Best RockstarsTop Most Beautiful Waterfalls in GermanyTop Best Fountain Pen Ink BrandsTop Best European Restaurants in ChicagoTop Best Fighter Jets in the WorldTop Best Three-Wheel MotorcyclesTop Most Beautiful Lakes in ManitobaTop Best Dive Sites in VenezuelaTop Best Websites For Art StudentsTop Best Japanese Instant Noodle BrandsTop Best Comedy Manhwa (Webtoons)Top Best Japanese Sunglasses BrandsTop Most Expensive Air Jordan SneakersTop Health Benefits of CucumberTop Famous Universities in SwedenTop Most Popular Films Starring Jo Jung-sukTop Interesting Facts about CougarsTop Best Hospitals for Hip Replacement in the USATop Most Expensive DefendersTop Health Benefits of GooseberriesTop Health Benefits of ParsnipsTop Best Foods and Drinks in LondonTop Health Benefits of Rosehip TeaTop Best Air Fryers for Low-fat CookingTop Most Asked Teacher Interview Questions with AnswersTop Best Shopping Malls in ZurichTop The Most Beautiful Botanical Gardens In L.A.Top Best Mexican Restaurants in Miami for Carb-loading rightTop Best Energy Companies in GermanyTop Best Garage HeatersTop Largest Banks in IrelandTop Leading Provider - Audit and Assurance In The USTop Best Jewelry Brands in IndiaTop Prettiest Streets in the UKTop Best Lakes to Visit in TunisiaTop Highest Mountains in Israel