A recent drag race in Lakeside, California, proved that horsepower isn’t always the deciding factor in straight-line performance. Captured on video at the Barona Dragstrip, a C8 Chevrolet Corvette Stingray faced off against a fifth-generation Camaro ZL1 — and the results surprised many muscle car fans.
On paper, the matchup seemed tilted toward the Camaro. Its 6.2-liter supercharged V8 engine produces around 580 horsepower and 556 pound-feet of torque, giving it a clear edge over the mid-engine Corvette’s 495 horsepower. Yet when the lights dropped, the numbers didn’t tell the full story.
In just 7.89 seconds, the Corvette Stingray crossed the line first, leaving the ZL1 trailing with an 8.45-second finish. The Corvette’s mid-engine balance, rapid dual-clutch transmission, and traction advantage likely played major roles in its commanding win. The Camaro, while powerful, struggled to make up ground despite its supercharged punch.
The short 1/8-mile format magnified reaction times and grip — two areas where the C8 excels. Built for precision and weight distribution, the Corvette managed to harness its power more efficiently, translating its engineering into real-world results.
Drag races like this remind enthusiasts that preparation and driving skill often outweigh raw numbers. From electric crossovers outpacing supercars to underdogs like this Stingray taking down bigger horsepower rivals, the dragstrip remains a place where surprises are common and bragging rights are earned the hard way.
In this case, the Corvette proved that agility, traction, and execution can outshine brute force. While the Camaro ZL1 remains a formidable machine, the C8’s quick victory reinforces its status as one of Chevrolet’s most capable and balanced performance cars to date.
