The Chevrolet Corvette C8, a mid-engined marvel launched in 2019, rapidly became a sensation. Its supercar-inspired design and exhilarating performance, combined with a surprisingly accessible price point, positioned it as a disruptor in the sports car market. Starting around $79,645 for the well-equipped 3LT trim, the C8 Corvette boasts a naturally aspirated 6.2-liter LT2 V-8 engine, delivering 490 horsepower (or 495 with the E-Ray powertrain) and a blistering 0-60 mph time of just 3 seconds (2.8 with the Z51 package). While the Corvette C8 offers an impressive package, the market presents a compelling array of alternatives that deliver comparable performance and driving thrills at similar price points.
Drawing upon data from Chevrolet and respected sources like Car & Driver, we’ve curated a list of 10 excellent cars comparable to the Corvette, offering diverse styles and performance characteristics. These alternatives prove that the C8 Corvette, while outstanding, is not the only option for drivers seeking high-octane excitement and head-turning appeal.
1. 2018 Mercedes-AMG C63 S
Average Used Price: $40,000 – $60,000
The Mercedes-AMG C63 S emerges as a formidable contender in the realm of Cars Comparable To Corvette. This unassuming four-door sedan, a rival to the BMW M4 Competition and Audi RS5, conceals a potent twin-turbo 4.0-liter V8 engine beneath its refined exterior. For those seeking Corvette-level performance in a more practical package, the C63 S presents a compelling case.
Performance
| 0-60 MPH | 3.8 seconds |
|---|---|
| Top Speed | 180 MPH |
| Weight | 4,134 pounds |
| Horsepower | 503 HP |
| Torque | 516 pound-feet |
Equipped with a nine-speed automatic transmission and rear-wheel drive, the C63 S achieves a 0-60 mph sprint in a mere 3.8 seconds. Its electronically limited top speed of 180 mph ensures exhilarating performance. Standard features include an electronically controlled limited-slip differential and AMG Ride Control suspension with adaptive dampers, enhancing both handling and comfort.
2. 2016-2020 Ford Mustang Shelby GT350
Average Used Price: $56,371 – $74,000
The Ford Mustang Shelby GT350 stands out as a value-packed option among cars comparable to Corvette. Do not let its relatively accessible price fool you; the GT350 packs a high-revving punch with Ford’s remarkable 5.2-liter flat-plane crank V8 engine. This naturally aspirated marvel screams to an astounding 8,250 RPM, delivering a unique aural experience and responsive power across the rev range.
Performance
| 0-60 MPH | 4.2 seconds |
|---|---|
| Top Speed | 180 MPH |
| Weight | 3,760 pounds |
| Horsepower | 526 HP |
| Torque | 429 pound-feet |
Exclusively offered with a six-speed TREMEC manual transmission, the Shelby GT350 provides an engaging and driver-focused experience. Its finely tuned chassis and electronically assisted steering contribute to impressive track capabilities. While the interior retains much of the standard Mustang design, Shelby badging and Recaro sport seats add a touch of performance flair.
3. 2022 Alfa Romeo Giulia Quadrifoglio
Average Used Price: $60,000 – $70,000
The Alfa Romeo Giulia Quadrifoglio is an Italian masterpiece that blends stunning design with Ferrari-derived performance, securing its place among cars comparable to Corvette. Its twin-turbo 2.9-liter V6 engine, with close ties to Ferrari engineering, generates over 500 horsepower, channeled to the rear wheels for a thrilling driving experience. Despite its smaller displacement compared to some competitors, the Giulia Quadrifoglio delivers exhilarating performance.
Performance
| 0-60 MPH | 3.6 seconds |
|---|---|
| Top Speed | 191 MPH |
| Weight | 3,862 pounds |
| Horsepower | 505 HP |
| Torque | 443 pound-feet |
The Giulia Quadrifoglio features a responsive eight-speed automatic transmission, prioritizing quick shifts. While a manual transmission is not available, the driving dynamics are undeniably engaging. Beyond its potent powertrain, the Giulia boasts a luxurious and sporty interior, highlighted by supercar-inspired elements like a steering wheel-mounted start/stop button and prominent paddle shifters.
4. 2020 Cadillac CT6-V
Average Used Price: $60,000 – $80,000
For those seeking Corvette-level performance with added practicality, the Cadillac CT6-V emerges as a compelling option within the spectrum of cars comparable to Corvette. This full-size sedan delivers exhilarating speed alongside sedan spaciousness and Cadillac’s signature luxury. It houses a potent twin-turbo 4.2-liter V8 engine, exceeding the Corvette C8’s horsepower output.
Performance
| 0-60 MPH | 3.8 seconds |
|---|---|
| Top Speed | 149 MPH |
| Weight | 4,600 pounds |
| Horsepower | 550 HP |
| Torque | 640 pound-feet |
Paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission and all-wheel drive, the CT6-V launches to 60 mph in a swift 3.8 seconds. Its twin-scroll turbochargers generate significant boost, resulting in torque figures rivaling even SRT Hellcat models, significantly surpassing the C8 Corvette. The transition to the 4.2-liter Blackwing V8 provides a smoother power delivery and a refined exhaust note compared to previous Cadillac V-engines.
5. 2023 Chevrolet Camaro ZL1
MSRP: $68,695
The Chevrolet Camaro ZL1 represents a significant evolution of the iconic muscle car, transforming it into a track-capable performance machine, and a worthy inclusion in a list of cars comparable to Corvette. Dispelling the notion of a purely straight-line performer, the Camaro ZL1 offers impressive handling, precise steering, and a formidable powertrain capable of blistering speed on both road and track. Its supercharged 6.2-liter pushrod V8 engine delivers a substantial power advantage over the C8 Corvette.
Performance
| 0-60 MPH | 3.4 seconds |
|---|---|
| Top Speed | 190 MPH |
| Weight | 3,886 pounds |
| Horsepower | 650 HP |
| Torque | 650 pound-feet |
Transmission choices include a standard six-speed manual or an optional 10-speed automatic. Rear-wheel drive channels the immense power, while adaptive dampers adjust dynamically to the selected drive mode, optimizing handling. Fuel economy, as expected with a supercharged V8, is not a primary focus, with city MPG typically around 13 and highway MPG reaching approximately 21.
6. 2024 Audi S6
MSRP: $74,700
The Audi S6 might not immediately appear as a direct competitor to the Corvette C8, but its performance credentials firmly place it among cars comparable to Corvette, particularly for those prioritizing all-weather capability and refined luxury. The S6 features a sophisticated twin-turbocharged and supercharged 2.9-liter V6 engine, delivering robust horsepower and torque figures. Audi’s renowned Quattro all-wheel drive system, honed through rally racing heritage, ensures exceptional traction and stability.
Performance
| 0-60 MPH | 4.0 seconds |
|---|---|
| Top Speed | 155 MPH |
| Weight | 4,472 pounds |
| Horsepower | 444 HP |
| Torque | 443 pound-feet |
The S6’s interior embodies modern German luxury, featuring diamond-stitched leather upholstery and genuine wood trim. Comfort and convenience are paramount, with features like four-zone automatic climate control, a power-adjustable heated steering wheel, and 12-way power-adjustable heated front seats.
7. 2021-2022 Dodge Charger SRT Hellcat Widebody
Average Used Price: $75,000 – $95,000
The Dodge Charger SRT Hellcat Widebody asserts its dominance as one of the most powerful cars on this list of cars comparable to Corvette. Boasting over 200 horsepower more than the C8 Corvette, the Hellcat’s reputation for sheer power precedes it. Its supercharged 6.2-liter Hellcat V8 engine delivers a staggering output exceeding 700 horsepower, with even more potent Jailbreak versions available.
Performance
| 0-60 MPH | 3.8 seconds |
|---|---|
| Top Speed | 196 MPH |
| Weight | 4,595 pounds |
| Horsepower | 717 HP |
| Torque | 650 pound-feet |
An eight-speed automatic transmission and rear-wheel drive enable the Charger SRT Hellcat Widebody to achieve a 0-60 mph time of 3.8 seconds, matching the Corvette in acceleration. The Widebody configuration enhances handling and grip through stiffer chassis components and wider tires.
8. 2020-2022 Dodge Challenger SRT Hellcat Redeye
Average Used Price: $75,000 – $100,000
Sharing many characteristics with the Charger SRT Hellcat, the Dodge Challenger SRT Hellcat Redeye distinguishes itself with even more extreme performance, solidifying its position among cars comparable to Corvette for those prioritizing raw power. It features the same supercharged 6.2-liter Hellcat V8 engine, but in the Redeye guise, it unleashes a breathtaking 80 additional horsepower compared to the standard Hellcat.
Performance
| 0-60 MPH | 3.7 seconds |
|---|---|
| Top Speed | 203 MPH |
| Weight | 4,514 pounds |
| Horsepower | 797 HP |
| Torque | 707 pound-feet |
Like the Charger Hellcat, the Redeye utilizes an eight-speed automatic transmission and rear-wheel drive. However, the Challenger SRT Hellcat Redeye shaves 0.2 seconds off the 0-60 mph time, reaching it in a mere 3.6 seconds. It also excels in quarter-mile performance, achieving times of around 11.8 seconds at 125 mph straight from the factory. Fuel economy is predictably low, mirroring that of a pickup truck, with city MPG around 13 and highway MPG up to 22.
9. 2023 Jaguar F-Type
MSRP: $79,175
The Jaguar F-Type, like the C8 Corvette, masterfully blends supercar aesthetics with exhilarating performance and a captivating engine soundtrack, making it a strong contender in the category of cars comparable to Corvette. It is equipped with a supercharged 5.0-liter V8 engine, producing slightly less horsepower and torque than the Corvette but maintaining a comparable top speed.
Performance
| 0-60 MPH | 4.0 seconds |
|---|---|
| Top Speed | 177 MPH |
| Weight | 3,953 pounds |
| Horsepower | 444 horsepower |
| Torque | 428 pound-feet |
An eight-speed automatic transmission directs power to the rear wheels. While interior space is somewhat limited, the F-Type offers a wealth of customization options for interior trims. Surprisingly, despite its supercharged V8, the F-Type can achieve up to 28 MPG on the highway, showcasing a degree of efficiency.
10. 2022 Ford Mustang Shelby GT500
Average Used Price: $90,000 – $100,000
Following the performance trajectory of the Camaro ZL1, the Ford Mustang Shelby GT500 represents the pinnacle of Mustang track capability, rightfully earning its place among cars comparable to Corvette for ultimate performance enthusiasts. Its “Predator” engine, a supercharged aluminum 5.2-liter V8, shares lineage with the GT350 engine but boasts a significant power increase of 200 horsepower. A 0-60 mph time of 3.4 seconds positions it as one of the quickest accelerating cars in this comparison. While its redline is slightly lower than the GT350, the GT500 still revs beyond 7,000 RPM.
Performance
| 0-60 MPH | 3.4 seconds |
|---|---|
| Top Speed | 180 MPH |
| Weight | 4,171 pounds |
| Horsepower | 760 HP |
| Torque | 625 pound-feet |
A seven-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission is standard, emphasizing performance-oriented gear changes. A manual transmission is not offered, as the immense power output renders manual shifting less practical. Similar to the GT350, the interior maintains a relatively straightforward design, distinguished by Shelby-specific badging.
Conclusion
The Chevrolet Corvette C8 undeniably set a new benchmark in the sports car realm, offering supercar thrills at a more attainable price. However, as this list demonstrates, numerous compelling alternatives exist that provide comparable performance, diverse driving experiences, and unique appeals. From luxurious sedans to track-focused muscle cars and stylish European coupes, the market for cars comparable to Corvette is rich with options for discerning drivers seeking high performance and exhilarating driving dynamics without necessarily opting for the Corvette itself. Whether prioritizing outright speed, handling prowess, luxury appointments, or distinctive styling, prospective buyers have a wealth of choices when exploring alternatives to the celebrated C8 Corvette.
