Lotus Exige

vs

Chevrolet Corvette Z06

UK vs USA — 2000 vs 2015

Lotus Exige (2000)
Chevrolet Corvette Z06 (2015)
Specifications
Exige S1Corvette Z06 C7 LT4 Supercharged
Horsepower177 hp650 hp
Torque134 lb-ft650 lb-ft
Engine Size1,796 cc6,162 cc
0-60 mph4.9 sec3.0 sec
Top Speed136 mph194 mph
¼ Mile13.5 sec11.0 sec
Weight3,524 lbs
Wheelbase2,300 mm2,710 mm
Length3,785 mm4,514 mm
Units Produced60036,667
Original MSRP$79,995
Value (Excellent)$110,000$110,000
Collectibility5/106/10
Rarity7/104/10
The Verdict

Numbers favor the 2015 Chevrolet Corvette Z06 C7 LT4 Supercharged with more power, quicker acceleration, higher top speed. The 2000 Lotus Exige S1 offers greater rarity, and has its own devoted following. For those who let their heart decide, either car delivers a rewarding ownership experience.

Overview

The rivalry between UK and USA automotive industries has produced legendary matchups, and the 2000 Lotus Exige S1 versus 2015 Chevrolet Corvette Z06 C7 LT4 Supercharged is among the most fascinating. These two cars represent the best of their national engineering schools. The 2015 Chevrolet Corvette Z06 C7 LT4 Supercharged holds a clear advantage in raw power with 650 hp compared to 177 hp, a 473-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 Z06 relies on a V8 OHV 16V Supercharged with 6,162 cc. In the sprint to 60 mph, the 2015 Chevrolet Corvette Z06 C7 LT4 Supercharged edges ahead at 3.0 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 Z06's 36,667 examples. Both trade at comparable values on the collector market, making the choice between them largely one of personal preference.