How Does the 2025 Corvette Z06 Stack Up Against European Supercars?
When Chevrolet set out to build a true rival to Europe’s best, it wasn’t just a bold move—it was a shot across the bow. The 2025 Corvette Z06, with its mid-engine layout and a 5.5-liter flat-plane crank V8, is the most serious attempt yet from an American automaker to take on the likes of Ferrari, Lamborghini, and McLaren. The numbers alone are enough to make any enthusiast sit up: 637 hp (475 kW), 438 lb-ft (595 Nm) of torque, and a manufacturer-claimed 0-62 mph sprint in 2.9 seconds. But what’s it like to actually live with one, especially outside the US, where the Z06 faces unique challenges and a much steeper price tag?
Why Is the Z06 So Expensive in Australia, and Is It Still a Bargain?
Let’s get the sticker shock out of the way. In the US, the Z06 starts at $112,100. In Australia, you’re looking at a base price of AU$336,000 (about $216,000), and that’s before you start ticking option boxes. The test car, loaded with the AU$50,000 Z07 Performance Package, carbon ceramics, carbon aero, and a few cosmetic extras, rang in at AU$397,700 (US$256,000). That’s a jaw-dropper—until you compare it to its European competition. A Ferrari 296 GTB in Australia? AU$604,000. Lamborghini Huracan RWD? AU$454,127. Suddenly, the Z06 looks like a blue-collar hero in a tuxedo.
The price hike isn’t just about shipping and taxes. Right-hand drive conversion, compliance with stricter emissions standards, and a smaller market all play a role. Still, even at double the US price, the Z06 undercuts its Italian and British rivals by a huge margin. For buyers who want supercar performance without the full supercar tax, it’s hard to argue with the value.
Does the Aussie Z06 Lose Anything Compared to the US Version?
Here’s where things get a bit sticky. To meet European and Australian regulations, the Z06 swaps its distinctive quad-center exhaust for a more conventional setup, complete with petrol particulate filters. The result? A loss of 25 kW (33 hp), bringing output down to 637 hp from the US-spec’s 670. That’s still a monster, but it means the e-Ray hybrid actually edges out the Z06 in outright power Down Under.
More importantly for purists, the exhaust note is muted. The high-pitched, Ferrari-like wail that defines the American Z06 is replaced by a flatter, less dramatic soundtrack. Some owners have already started retrofitting US-market exhausts to reclaim the magic. It’s a small but noticeable compromise, especially for a car that trades so much on drama.
What’s It Like to Drive the Z06 on Real Roads?
Let’s cut to the chase: the Z06 is a riot. The flat-plane crank V8 revs to a dizzying 8,600 rpm, delivering a relentless surge of power and a soundtrack that, while toned down in Australia, still puts most rivals to shame. The eight-speed dual-clutch is lightning-quick yet smooth enough for city traffic. On a winding mountain road, the Z07 package’s carbon ceramics and magnetic dampers inspire confidence, even if the ride is firmer than the Stingray or e-Ray.
Traction, however, is a real-world challenge. On cold roads with Michelin Pilot Sport 4S tires (fitted for winter), putting all 637 horses to the ground through the rear wheels isn’t easy. Launching the Z06 is more about finesse than brute force. While Chevy claims 2.9 seconds to 62 mph, real-world launches in less-than-ideal conditions landed closer to 3.5 seconds. Warmer weather and stickier Cup 2 R tires would help, but the Z06 is always a handful—just the way some drivers like it.
Is the Z06 a Supercar You Can Actually Use Every Day?
Surprisingly, yes. Thanks to the magnetic ride control, the Z06 can soak up bumps and potholes with a civility that’s rare in this segment. The brakes are strong but easy to modulate, and the dual-clutch transmission is docile in traffic. There’s enough cargo space for a weekend getaway, and the cockpit—controversial wall of buttons and all—feels focused and special.
That said, there are quirks. Headroom is tight for taller drivers, and the interior, while stylish, still features some cheap plastics that remind you this is a Chevy, not a Bentley. Storage is minimal, but that’s par for the course in mid-engine exotics. The biggest complaint? The Z06’s steering in its sportiest mode is heavy enough to give you a workout. Maybe skip arm day at the gym if you’re planning a long drive.
How Does the Z06 Make You Feel Compared to Ferraris and Lamborghinis?
This is where the Z06 really shines. It turns heads everywhere, especially in Australia where it’s still a rare sight. Kids wave, bystanders pull out their phones, and you get the sense you’re driving something truly special. The Z06 doesn’t just keep up with Ferraris and Lamborghinis—it matches their sense of occasion, at least in terms of presence and performance.
Sure, the badge doesn’t carry the same cachet, and the exhaust note isn’t quite as operatic as a 488 or Huracan. But the Z06’s ability to deliver supercar thrills for half the price is a game-changer. It’s the kind of car that makes you feel like a rockstar, even if you’re just heading to the shops.
Is the Z06 Worth the Premium Over the Stingray and e-Ray?
That’s the million-dollar question. The Stingray and e-Ray deliver 90% of the thrills for a lot less money, and in some conditions (especially wet or cold roads), the e-Ray’s all-wheel drive and hybrid punch make it even quicker. The Z06 is for those who want the ultimate C8 experience—the wildest engine, the sharpest handling, and the most dramatic looks.
If you’re after the best all-rounder, the Stingray or e-Ray might be the smarter pick. But if you crave the edge, the Z06 delivers it in spades. There’s even a case to be made for a hypothetical Grand Sport model that combines the Z06’s widebody and aero with the Stingray’s more approachable powertrain. Fingers crossed GM is listening.
What’s the Real-World Fuel Economy Like?
Let’s be honest—nobody buys a Z06 for its fuel efficiency. During mixed driving, the test car averaged 16.7 l/100 km (about 14 mpg). That’s thirsty, but not out of line for a naturally aspirated V8 making this much power. If you’re worried about running costs, this probably isn’t your car. But for those who can afford the entry price, the fuel bill is just part of the experience.
The Big Takeaway: Is the Z06 the Supercar Sweet Spot?
The 2025 Corvette Z06 isn’t perfect. The Australian version loses a bit of power and drama, and the price tag is steep compared to the US. But step back and look at the big picture: here’s a car that delivers Ferrari-level thrills, daily usability, and genuine exclusivity for a fraction of the price of its European rivals. The result? Pure magic.
The big takeaway? Supercar ownership isn’t about perfection—it’s about smarter adjustments. Start with one change this week, and you’ll likely spot the difference by month’s end. Whether that’s embracing the Z06’s quirks, retrofitting a better exhaust, or just taking the long way home, the joy is in the drive.