2022 Chevrolet Corvette vs 2023 Porsche 911

The 2022 Chevrolet Corvette was a visual spectacle, drawing inspiration from Ferrari with its engine under glass, side air intakes, pointed nose, and a body that tapered and widened at the back. While it was undeniably exciting to look at, it lacked distinct features that identified it as a Corvette. The coupe models featured a targa-style removable roof panel, while the convertible boasted a retractable hardtop that could be lowered in 16 seconds at speeds up to 50 km/h. The Corvette's interior was unmistakable, with a square steering wheel, digital instrument cluster, and a bold dashboard layout that separated the driver and passenger with a spine-like structure housing various controls.

The 2023 Porsche 911 maintained its iconic design, evolving slowly over its 59-year history to become one of the most recognizable vehicles. Its low-slung, sleek shape was intended for performance enthusiasts, exuding refinement and seriousness. While some might have found its design classy, others could have considered it boring. The 911's build quality and performance were undeniable, and its starting price above $100,000 added to its exclusivity. Despite its limitations in convenience, the 911 was an accomplished and comfortable tourer, appealing to a broad audience.

The 2022 Chevrolet Corvette marked a significant shift with its mid-engine layout, enhancing weight distribution and traction for its rear-wheel drive. The standard Corvette Stingray featured a 6.2-litre V8 engine, producing 490 hp and 465 lb-ft of torque, or 495 hp and 470 lb-ft with the optional performance exhaust. This engine was paired with an eight-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission. The Corvette boasted impressive performance figures, with a 0-96 km/h time of 2.9 seconds and a top speed of 312 km/h. The Z51 performance package further enhanced its capabilities, making it a formidable competitor even against pricier rivals. The Corvette's steering was communicative, and its chassis was eager to change directions, offering a playful yet approachable driving experience. Equipped with Magnetic Selective Ride Control, it was also a comfortable daily driver.

The 2023 Porsche 911 offered a diverse lineup with a dozen distinct models. The base 911 Carrera, with its 379-hp rear-wheel drive, provided ample performance for most drivers. The Carrera 4 added all-wheel drive, while the Carrera T focused on weight savings and driver engagement. The Carrera S increased power to 443 hp, and the Carrera GTS pushed it further to 473 hp. The Sport Classic model offered retro styling and 543 hp. The 911 Turbo models delivered 572 or 640 hp, but the 502-hp GT3 and 518-hp GT3 RS were the sportiest, tuned for high-performance driving. The 911 Dakar, inspired by off-road racing, was an outlier with its lifted suspension. The Carrera T, with its manual transmission and lightweight components, was engaging and comfortable, while the GT3 models prioritized performance over comfort.

The 2022 Chevrolet Corvette, as a two-seat sports car, wasn't particularly practical, but it offered two trunks due to its mid-engine layout. The combined cargo space was 357 litres, slightly less than the previous generation. The rear trunk could hold a set of golf clubs, while the front trunk accommodated an airline carry-on bag. However, removing the roof occupied the entire rear trunk. The Corvette's interior was driver-centric, with a square steering wheel providing an unobstructed view of the instrument cluster. The touchscreen was easy to reach, and the centre console housed controls within easy reach. Rear visibility was compromised, but large mirrors and optional camera systems helped. The optional GT2 bucket seats offered comfort and support, with power adjustment and lumbar support available.

The 2023 Porsche 911 paid homage to its past with design cues while incorporating modern technology. The instrument panel featured a central analog tachometer, flanked by digital displays. The infotainment touchscreen integrated many controls, but physical knobs and buttons remained for quick adjustments. The standard Sports Seats Plus provided comfort and support, while the Full Bucket Seats offered more aggressive bolstering. The rear seats were small, best used as a cargo shelf. The 911 lacked a traditional trunk, offering a 130-litre storage space under the hood. The Cabriolet models required fewer sacrifices, with a folding fabric top that deployed in 12 seconds. Interior materials were high quality, and customization options were available, though costly.

The 2022 Chevrolet Corvette featured an 8-inch touchscreen and 12-inch digital instrument cluster, with wireless Apple CarPlay/Android Auto, Bluetooth, SiriusXM, and a WiFi hotspot. Navigation was standard on all but the base trim, and a head-up display was available. The infotainment system was user-friendly, with important functions easily accessible. The base audio system had 10 speakers, while higher trims offered a 14-speaker Bose system. The Performance Data Recorder captured dashcam video and track data, aiding driver improvement. The front-end lift system raised the nose 40 mm to avoid scraping, with memory for up to 1,000 locations.

The 2023 Porsche 911 prioritized performance, with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto standard. The 10.9-inch touchscreen was mounted lower, requiring more attention to operate. The base audio system was basic, with Bose and Burmester upgrades available. The Sport Chrono package added performance features, and the front-axle lift system raised the suspension by 4 cm to prevent scraping. The system could remember locations for automatic activation.

The 2022 Chevrolet Corvette was light on driver-assist tech, with blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert available on higher trims. Crash-test ratings from IIHS and NHTSA were unavailable due to low sales volumes.

The 2023 Porsche 911 lacked typical safety features, with frontal collision warning, automatic emergency braking, and lane-keep assist standard on the base Carrera. The Premium package added a surround-view camera and lane change assist. Night vision and an integrated dashcam were also available. Crash-test ratings were not published by NHTSA or IIHS.