Lotus Exige

vs

Chevrolet Corvette C7 ZR1

UK vs USA — 2000 vs 2019

Lotus Exige (2000)
Chevrolet Corvette C7 ZR1 (2019)
Specifications
Exige S1Corvette C7 ZR1 LT5 Supercharged
Horsepower177 hp755 hp
Torque134 lb-ft715 lb-ft
Engine Size1,796 cc6,162 cc
0-60 mph4.9 sec2.9 sec
Top Speed136 mph212 mph
¼ Mile13.5 sec10.6 sec
Weight3,524 lbs
Wheelbase2,300 mm2,710 mm
Length3,785 mm4,514 mm
Units Produced6002,953
Original MSRP$121,000
Value (Excellent)$110,000$200,000
Collectibility5/109/10
Rarity7/108/10
The Verdict

The 2019 Chevrolet Corvette C7 ZR1 LT5 Supercharged emerges ahead in most objective measures, offering more power, quicker acceleration, higher top speed. The 2000 Lotus Exige S1 counters with greater rarity, better value, but the numbers favor its rival. Still, both are remarkable machines, and the final choice often comes down to which driving experience speaks to you.

Overview

Putting the 2000 Lotus Exige S1 against the 2019 Chevrolet Corvette C7 ZR1 LT5 Supercharged is a comparison that enthusiasts have debated for decades. Each car reflects distinct design philosophies shaped by different automotive cultures — UK versus USA. The 2019 Chevrolet Corvette C7 ZR1 LT5 Supercharged holds a clear advantage in raw power with 755 hp compared to 177 hp, a 578-horsepower difference that shapes the driving experience. Under the hood, the contrast is notable: the Lotus Exige uses a Inline-4 DOHC 16V displacing 1,796 cc, while the Chevrolet Corvette C7 ZR1 relies on a V8 OHV Supercharged with 6,162 cc. In the sprint to 60 mph, the 2019 Chevrolet Corvette C7 ZR1 LT5 Supercharged edges ahead at 2.9 seconds versus 4.9 seconds. Rarity plays a significant role here — with only 600 units built, the 2000 Lotus Exige S1 is considerably scarcer than the Chevrolet Corvette C7 ZR1's 2,953 examples. From a collectibility standpoint, the 2019 Chevrolet Corvette C7 ZR1 LT5 Supercharged rates higher among enthusiasts and auction houses.