Mercedes-Benz CLK 63 AMG

vs

Chevrolet Corvette C6 ZR1

Germany vs USA — 2008 vs 2009

Mercedes-Benz CLK 63 AMG (2008)
Chevrolet Corvette C6 ZR1 (2009)
Specifications
CLK 63 AMG Black SeriesCorvette C6 ZR1 LS9 Supercharged
Horsepower507 hp638 hp
Torque465 lb-ft604 lb-ft
Engine Size6,208 cc6,162 cc
0-60 mph4.1 sec3.4 sec
Top Speed186 mph205 mph
¼ Mile12.2 sec11.3 sec
Weight3,880 lbs3,350 lbs
Wheelbase2,715 mm2,686 mm
Length4,652 mm4,476 mm
Units Produced5004,684
Original MSRP$135,000$111,100
Value (Excellent)$250,000$130,000
Collectibility8/109/10
Rarity8/107/10
The Verdict

The 2009 Chevrolet Corvette C6 ZR1 LS9 Supercharged emerges ahead in most objective measures, offering more power, quicker acceleration, higher top speed. The 2008 Mercedes-Benz CLK 63 AMG Black Series counters with greater rarity, 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

When Germany engineering meets USA craftsmanship, the result is one of the most compelling matchups in the classic car world. The 2008 Mercedes-Benz CLK 63 AMG Black Series and 2009 Chevrolet Corvette C6 ZR1 LS9 Supercharged embody their respective national automotive traditions while competing in the same arena. The 2009 Chevrolet Corvette C6 ZR1 LS9 Supercharged holds a clear advantage in raw power with 638 hp compared to 507 hp, a 131-horsepower difference that shapes the driving experience. Under the hood, the contrast is notable: the Mercedes-Benz CLK 63 AMG uses a V8 DOHC 32V displacing 6,208 cc, while the Chevrolet Corvette C6 ZR1 relies on a V8 OHV Supercharged with 6,162 cc. In the sprint to 60 mph, the 2009 Chevrolet Corvette C6 ZR1 LS9 Supercharged edges ahead at 3.4 seconds versus 4.1 seconds. The Chevrolet Corvette C6 ZR1 carries a weight advantage, tipping the scales 530 lbs lighter. Rarity plays a significant role here — with only 500 units built, the 2008 Mercedes-Benz CLK 63 AMG Black Series is considerably scarcer than the Chevrolet Corvette C6 ZR1's 4,684 examples.