Thunder Road: Corvette C7 Z06 Takes On Mercedes-AMG GT-R

Corvette and Mercedes fans have beef. Time to take it to the track.  

It’s safe to say that there isn’t a lot of crossover between Corvette and Mercedes enthusiasts. Yes, both can (begrudgingly) appreciate all the many virtues the other vehicle has. But, ultimately they’re on two very different sides. Largely, this is because these two sports cars are oh-so very different.  One projects the image of the ultimate American sports car. While Mercedes is much more likely to be defined by its luxury status.

Truth is, they are both incredible cars. But–let’s just say for the sake if science–how do they stack up side-by-side on the track?

Dan from Track Day decided to put these two titans to the test. He calls it “American Muscle versus German Engineering.” We might call it apple pie versus black forest cake.

Ultimately, this isn’t about deciding a “winner,” per se. What is interesting is seeing how how two very different (and very similar) front-engined, RWD sports cars with some major V8 power actually perform in real life on the straight line. They are well matched in weight and each will be driven by non-professional drivers.

First up, we have the 2019 C7 Z06. If you follow Track Day on You Tube or Instagram, you that Dan owned a stunning 2019 Z06, but recently sold it. He is driving its “doppelganger.” With a 6.2L supercharged Chevy small block, it cranks out about 640 hp with a manual transmission. We especially love choosing the C7 Corvette for this battle. Dan usually gets high 10s at about 127 mph.

Then we have the 2020 Mercedes-AMG GT-R. It is a hell of a car, too. Powered by a 4.0L V8 engine that is a pure powerhouse with two turbochargers. “It makes a modest 577 hp,” muses Dan. “It crosses the line a little slower at 11.2 but somehow it traps higher at 131 mph.”

One thing to note: Damn, these two cars sound good! It is savage, thunderous, and awesome.

First they race from a dig, 2,000 feet. Cameras are mounted in both cars, so we get a fuller experience. Plus we get to see and hear the other car very nicely. Both come strong off the line, and it is an interesting result. (No spoilers!) Next they go again, this time racing from a 40 roll, 1,800 feet. As Dan points out, “this is all about raw performance, now.”

The results are interesting and definitely show how the Corvette has very distinct strengths over Mercedes-AMG…and vice versa. In terms of speed, the Mercedes is one fast front-engined menace. However, Corvette delivers solid, agile handling. And one awesome roar.) Had launch control been employed, we think the ‘Vette performance would have improved from the dig.

As always, Track Day videos are not only entertaining, but filmed beautifully. And Dan breaks it down as only a true blue ‘Vette man can.

Check it out and let us know your thoughts!

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