On paper (at least power-wise), this should have been pretty close. In fact, one would think the Corvette might have this “in the bag”. But these are real world scenarios which often turn out different than what we expect.
The 2015 Corvette Z06 is a lean, mean supercharged V8 machine. Its 6.2 liter power unit produces 650 PS and 880 Nm (650 lb-ft) of torque, getting you to 100 km/h (62 mph) in just 3.1 seconds. That’s fast enough to make you forget about European supercars. Sometimes.
On the other hand, the now extinct McLaren 12C is still a beast in its own right. It has a 3.8 liter twin turbo V8 good for 625 HP and 600 Nm (443 lb-ft) of torque.
Now that we know the power and torque outputs, let’s consider the weight of these cars. The 12C tips the scales at 1,301 kg (2,868 lbs) whereas the Vette weighs in at about 1,598 kg (3,524 lbs).
That’s a considerable margin if you stop to think about it. It’s three very heavy adults-worth of extra weight which still shouldn’t completely annihilate the Z06’s massive torque advantage, but add to that the AMS tune on the 12C and you got yourself a winner.
If the McLaren was stock, it would have definitely been a closer race.