There were many things which captured the world’s attention following the global premiere of the C8-generation Chevrolet Corvette a couple of weeks ago. One of these was the company’s revelation that the 2020 Corvette Stingray with the optional Z51 Performance Package would reach 60 mph (96 km/h) in under than 3 seconds.
Chevrolet hasn’t released an exact 0-60 mph time just yet but anything below 3-seconds is extremely quick. What makes this even more impressive is the fact that the Corvette Stingray ‘only’ has 495 hp with the Z51 pack, significantly less grunt than one may think is needed to accelerate off the line so quickly.
Just how has Chevrolet developed a mid-engined rear-wheel drive supercar with under 500 hp so quick? This video from Engineering Explained tells you how.
Also Read: 2020 C8 Corvette Allows Drivers To Adjust Brake Feel In Three Different Modes
The current quickest Corvette, the C7 ZR1, pumps out 755 hp and hits 60 mph in 2.85 seconds. However, that car is front-engined and sticking the rear tires to the pavement is difficult. By comparison, the C8 Corvette is mid-engined meaning it has more weight over the rear, resulting in improved traction.
In addition, the 2020 Corvette Stingray uses a new dual-clutch eight-speed automatic transmission which can change gears in under 100 milliseconds. When combined with aggressive gearing and Michelin PS4S tires, Engineering Explained believes the theoretical best 0-60 mph time of the C8 Corvette is 2.76 seconds.
It remains to be seen when Chevrolet will drop all the important details about the C8 Corvette, including its acceleration times and pricing, but it will likely be before the end of the year.