2013 SRT Viper GTS vs 2012 Chevrolet Corvette ZR1

We are going to compare two very similar cars that look alike. They have quite similar power output, but quite different engines. The limits of this cars are so high, that you can’t even begin to approach them on a public road. The both cars have 6-speed manual transmission. The Chevrolet Corvette ZR1 is powered by a 6.2L Supercharged OHV V8 engine, delivering 638 hp and a 604 lb-ft of torque. Chevy calls this engine the LS9. It is loud on the track, quiet on the streets and it can offer a tremendous power. The ZR1 is a highly manageable car with an excellent balance. It can offer accessible performance, meaning that you can get to the limit of the car and stay there. It has a very compliant suspension and a big 15.5 inch carbon ceramic brakes at front, which gives an excellent control over the car.

The SRT Viper GTS is powered by a 8.4L OHV V10 engine delivering 640 hp and a 600 lb-ft of torque. It is one of the largest displacement production car engines in the world. The peak torque shows up at 5000 rpm, and it pulls hard over a 5000 rpm. The Viper weighs 17 pounds more than the Corvette. It has great traction and stability control, but even with them you are still fighting with an angry beast. The GTS has a 14 inch steel brakes, the brake pedal is very firm and it feels good under the foot.

The Viper has a nicer and higher quality interior, but the seats are less comfortable, the noise is deafening and the side pipes heat up the lower end of the cabin. The Viper can offer tremendous acceleration, powerful and crazy ride, it is a fun car, but it is less refined than the Corvette. It feels faster than the ZR1, but it bounces more, the suspension feels much stiffer and it doesn’t have nearly the brakes nor nearly the grip of the ZR1. Both cars have high capabilities, but in the Vette you can reach those capabilities. The Viper is a little bit scary, a little bit brutal and a much more difficult car to drive fast. It is faster to straight line, but the Chevrolet Corvette ZR1 is a better handling car.