MICHAEL HARLEY

The 2020 Chevrolet Corvette and 2020 Porsche 911 Carrera are two of the finest sports cars on the planet — and arguably the most well-known. Both have been re-engineered. The 911 retains its traditional layout, but the Corvette switches to a mid-engine design. This change has nearly leveled the playing field between the two.

2020 Chevrolet Corvette

2020 Chevrolet Corvette Starting Price: $58,900 | Price Yours or View listings near you

Above Average: Powerful V8 engine with a stunning exhaust soundtrack. Excellent handling and driving dynamics. Great value in terms of performance and price.

Below Average: Curb weight is still high. Cabin is tight, vehicle access is a challenge.

Consensus: The 2020 Corvette is the most advanced, most capable, and most innovative derivative yet — it is a world-class sports car.

2020 Porsche 911 Carrera

2020 Porsche 911 Carrera Starting Price: $97,400 | Price Yours or View listings near you

Above Average: Quality build materials and refinement. World-class handling. Available all-wheel drive. 2+2 seating is handy in a pinch.

Below Average: Base model is very expensive with limited standard features. Convenience and sport options rocket the price skyward.

Consensus: The 2020 Porsche 911 retains its title as the sports car segment benchmark. It is faster than ever, and more comfortable to live with as a daily driver.

Corvette vs. 911: Former and current upstarts

Chevrolet Corvette

After seven generations of building a classic front-engine rear-drive sports car, Chevrolet has re-engineered the Corvette with mid-engine architecture. The drastic change improves the vehicle’s balance and driving dynamics, while still allowing the traditional powerful V8 engine to fit. The all-new Corvette (or “C8” to purists), is a world-class sports car that is just getting into its stride. The base coupe and convertible models are offered in 2020 with one very powerful engine choice. But, expect a high output Z06, with a 32-valve V8, in a year or so. This will be followed by the Grand Sport and flagship ZR1 models, which will fill out the lineup over the next several years.

Porsche 911

The eighth-generation Porsche 911 retains the familiar rear-engine layout of its predecessors, yet it polishes package with improved acceleration, better handling, and a more comfortable and advanced cabin for its passengers. The all-new 2020 model (or “992” to purists), remains a benchmark for other automakers to beat. The base models are fitted with a traditional twin-turbocharged 6-cylinder boxer engine, which delivers strong acceleration thanks to the vehicle’s light weight. Premium S and Turbo models offer more power, unique bodywork, and further performance upgrades. Porsche will complete the lineup with the GTS, GT3, and track-ready RS model in the near future.

Similarities

Despite the mid- and rear-engine layout differences, the performance is high for both. Engines are strong, brakes are powerful, and the steering is precise. Enthusiasts will be pleased with either choice. Both the Corvette and 911 offer storage in the nose of the chassis, for additional convenience.

Chevrolet Corvette Advantages

Lower price and traditional V8 power.

Porsche 911 Advantages

Available all-wheel drive and two-plus-two seating.

Final Recommendation

Chevrolet raised the bar with the all-new C8 Corvette, which now delivers stellar dynamics. It’s equal or better than that of the base 911 for significantly less. That said, America’s sports car still falls short of the all-new Porsche 911 in quality of materials, day-to-day comfort, and long-term resale value.