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What is faster, Corvette or Viper?

In modern terms, the Corvette is faster across most measured metrics; the Viper remains a legendary performance car from an earlier era, but production ended in 2017. The Corvette lineup, especially the C8 generation and its high-performance variants, has pushed the benchmark forward while the Viper has become a collectible icon.


Defining speed in this comparison


Speed can mean straight-line acceleration, top-end speed, or track performance. Each metric tells a different part of the story, and the comparison below focuses on representative models from the latest Corvette lineup and the final Dodge Viper iterations.


0-60 mph: quickness off the line


0-60 mph times are a common shorthand for straight-line performance; the following figures reference typical configurations for street-legal versions. Times can vary with tires, launch setup, and optional performance packages.



  • Corvette Stingray (C8, 2020–present): about 2.9 seconds with proper launch control and the right tires.

  • Corvette Z06 (C8, 2022–present): around 2.6–2.7 seconds, thanks to higher horsepower and refined gearing.

  • Viper (final SRT Viper GTS/TA/Final ACR-era models, ~2010s): roughly 3.3–3.5 seconds depending on configuration and tires.


In practice, modern Corvettes push into sub-3-second territory, while the Viper typically lands in the low-to-mid 3-second range. The Corvette therefore holds a clear edge in straight-line acceleration among contemporary and recent-model performance cars in this comparison.


Top speed and high-speed capability


Top speed numbers reveal the upper limit of speed, though real-world performance depends on aerodynamics, gearing, and road conditions. The figures below reflect manufacturer estimates and credible testing for each model family.



  • Corvette Stingray: roughly 184–195 mph depending on trim and aero configuration.

  • Corvette Z06: higher, around 198–200 mph in standard form, with certain aero/packages pushing toward the upper end of that range.

  • Viper (final-generation models): typically around 206 mph for high-performance variants like the SRT Viper GTS; many Vipers list top speeds in the 200–206 mph range.


Overall, top-end figures vary by variant. Modern Corvettes can approach the Viper’s top speed at their upper trims, and in some setups may exceed it, while the Stingray sits below the Viper’s top-end in most configurations. The Corvette’s advantage lies in broader performance capability across the speed spectrum, aided by newer technology and aerodynamics.


Track performance and handling


Track performance blends cornering grip, braking efficiency, aero effectiveness, and chassis tuning. The Viper ACR (American Club Racing) era is widely celebrated for extreme track-focused aerodynamics and handling, while the latest Corvettes deliver world-class track performance with modern electronics, adaptive damping, and advanced aero. The following notes summarize typical strengths on the track.



  • Viper ACR-era models: renowned for extreme grip and aero that yielded impressive lap times on select circuits; the package was designed specifically for track use and driver skill.

  • Corvette Z06 (C8): a strong track weapon with active aero, sophisticated chassis tuning, and a powertrain that suits aggressive cornering and high-speed runs.

  • Corvette ZR1 (C8, where available): top-tier performance with enhanced aero and power, aimed at serious track work and high-speed stability.


Historically, the Viper ACR set notable track benchmarks for its era, but newer Corvettes have closed the gap and, on many circuits, surpassed older benchmark lap times thanks to improved chassis control, tire technology, and software. For many drivers, a modern Corvette offers more consistent track performance across a broader range of courses.


Production status and model options


Understanding availability helps frame speed expectations. Here’s where things stand as of 2025.



  • Viper: Production ended in 2017 after the SRT era concluded; there is no direct replacement in Dodge’s lineup, and the Viper remains a sought-after collectible and track-focused classic.

  • Corvette: The current generation is the C8, with Stingray, Z06, and evolving performance variants (and rumors of further high-performance models to follow). Chevrolet continues to push performance and technology forward in the Corvette family.


Bottom line: if you’re chasing the most up-to-date performance with broad availability, the Corvette offers more consistent access to peak-speed capability and cutting-edge tech, while the Viper stands as a historic, highly capable street/track car for collectors and enthusiasts.


Summary


Across the main speed benchmarks—0-60 acceleration, top speed, and track performance—the Corvette generally outpaces the Viper in modern-day metrics, especially with the C8’s Stingray and Z06 variants. The Viper, while no longer in production, remains a legendary icon known for raw power and track-focused handling from its era. For today’s speed seekers, the Corvette represents the faster, more technically advanced package overall, with the Viper enduring as a coveted emblem of American performance history.

What car can outrun a Corvette?


Many cars are faster than a Corvette, including electric supercars like the Tesla Model S Plaid, high-performance gasoline-powered cars such as the Porsche 911 Turbo S and the Ferrari F8 Tributo, and some production hypercars like the Aspark Owl. Some performance sedans and smaller production cars are also faster, depending on the specific Corvette model and performance metrics being compared (e.g., top speed vs. acceleration). 
Electric supercars 

  • Tesla Model S Plaid: Sprints from 0-60 mph in a claimed 1.99 seconds, faster than the Corvette E-Ray. 
  • Aspark Owl: Has a top speed of 256 mph and a 0-60 mph time of 1.7 seconds. 

High-performance gasoline cars
  • Porsche 911 Turbo S: Accelerates faster to 60 mph and wins a drag race by a full second compared to the C8 Corvette. 
  • Ferrari F8 Tributo: Reaches a higher top speed (211 mph) and has a slightly quicker quarter-mile time (10.2 seconds) than the Corvette Z06. 
  • Lamborghini Revuelto: Wins a drag race against the Corvette C8 ZR1 in multiple attempts. 

Other production and high-performance cars
  • Cadillac CT4-V Blackwing: Has an official top speed of 189 mph, slightly edging out the Corvette Z06 with the Z07 package.
  • BMW M5: An unlimited M5 should be able to crack over 200 mph, surpassing the Corvette. 



Is the Viper the fastest car?


The fastest Viper depends on the definition: the fastest street-legal version is the Dodge Viper ACR, while the fastest overall Viper is a highly modified, twin-turbocharged drag car named Kratos. The Viper ACR can reach speeds of up to 177 mph but is optimized for track performance through extreme downforce and grip. The twin-turbo Kratos, however, has a verified quarter-mile time of 6.74 seconds at 214 mph, demonstrating vastly superior acceleration. 
You can watch this video to see Kratos in action: 1mThat Racing ChannelYouTube · Mar 28, 2022
Fastest street-legal Viper

  • Model: Dodge Viper ACR (American Club Racer) 
  • Top Speed: 177 mph 
  • Key features: Extreme aerodynamics, heavy downforce (nearly 2,000 pounds), large rear wing, and track-focused tires 
  • Note: While its top speed is lower than other Vipers, its performance is focused on handling and grip for racing on a circuit. 

Fastest overall Viper
  • Model: Kratos, a heavily modified twin-turbocharged 2016 Viper ACR-X 
  • Quarter-Mile Time: 6.74 seconds at 214 mph 
  • Power: Around 3300-3500 horsepower 
  • Key features: Built by Nth Moto, this car is optimized for maximum acceleration in a straight line. 
  • Note: This car is street-legal and can be driven on public roads, retaining features like air conditioning and a sound system. 

This video shows another extremely fast Viper drag car: 1mThat Racing ChannelYouTube · Nov 1, 2022



Is a Dodge Viper faster than a Corvette?


The Viper's 3.8-second 0-to-60 sprint is still plenty quick, but it's almost a half-second slower than the Vette's. Some of that difference comes down to an issue of engine rpm and gearing. The Vette, for example, can reach 60 mph in first gear, whereas the Viper must use up a time-consuming gearshift.



Is a Corvette faster than a Bugatti?


A Bugatti is generally faster than a Corvette, particularly in top speed, but the newest high-performance Corvettes can be quicker in acceleration over short distances. For example, the 2026 Corvette ZR1 has an acceleration comparable to the Bugatti Chiron, while the Bugatti Chiron Super Sport holds a higher top speed of over 300300300 mph, according to Robb Report.
 
You can watch this video to see a drag race between a Corvette and a Model S Plaid: 26scarwowYouTube · Dec 30, 2023

  • Acceleration: Some newer, high-performance Corvette models, like the ZR1, are engineered to match or beat some Bugatti models in acceleration (0-60 mph). 
  • Top Speed: Bugattis consistently have higher top speeds than Corvettes. The Bugatti Chiron Super Sport has a top speed of over 300300300 mph, while the top speed for Corvettes is generally lower. 
  • Overall: Corvettes are generally less expensive and can be faster in certain situations like short sprints, while Bugattis are built for extreme top-end speed, making them the faster car over the long haul. 


Kevin's Auto

Kevin Bennett

Company Owner

Kevin Bennet is the founder and owner of Kevin's Autos, a leading automotive service provider in Australia. With a deep commitment to customer satisfaction and years of industry expertise, Kevin uses his blog to answer the most common questions posed by his customers. From maintenance tips to troubleshooting advice, Kevin's articles are designed to empower drivers with the knowledge they need to keep their vehicles running smoothly and safely.