Porsche 981 Cayman GT4 / Chevrolet Corvette C5 Z06
Track-Proven Rivals: Porsche 981 Cayman GT4 vs Chevrolet Corvette C5 Z06
The Porsche 981 Cayman GT4 and Chevrolet Corvette C5 Z06 represent two distinct approaches to performance, yet LapMeta's comprehensive data reveals remarkably close competition. With 363 head-to-head lap comparisons across 49 common tracks, these cars have been thoroughly tested against each other—and the results might surprise you. Average lap time difference: just 4.89 seconds, with battles as close as 0.02 seconds.
The Specifications
Porsche 981 Cayman GT4:
- Engine: 3.8 Flat 6
- Power: 385 hp / 420.3 lb-ft torque
- Weight: 3050 lbs (Power-to-weight: 7.92 lbs/hp)
- Drivetrain: RWD | 6spd Manual
- 0-60 mph: 4s
- Current Value: $94000
Chevrolet Corvette C5 Z06:
- Engine: LS6 5.7-liter V8
- Power: 411 hp / 542.33 lb-ft torque
- Weight: 3245 lbs (Power-to-weight: 7.9 lbs/hp)
- Drivetrain: RWD | 6-speed manual T-56 4-speed automatic 4L60E
- 0-60 mph: 4s
- Current Value: $35000
Track Performance Analysis
Across 363 recorded laps on 49 different tracks, the data reveals:
- Porsche 981 Cayman GT4 faster: 123 times (33.9%)
- Chevrolet Corvette C5 Z06 faster: 240 times (66.1%)
- Average difference: 4.89 seconds
- Closest battle: 0.02 seconds
The 26 hp power difference and 195 pound weight gap create distinct performance characteristics. The Porsche 981 Cayman GT4's 7.92 lbs/hp power-to-weight ratio compares to the Chevrolet Corvette C5 Z06's 7.9 lbs/hp, explaining much of the on-track dynamic.
The Economics
Current market values show a $59000 gap, with the Porsche 981 Cayman GT4 at $94000 and the Chevrolet Corvette C5 Z06 at $35000. This price difference—combined with the minimal lap time gap—makes the value proposition clear for budget-conscious track enthusiasts.
The Verdict
With only 4.89 seconds separating these cars on average, driver skill and setup matter far more than spec sheet numbers. The Porsche 981 Cayman GT4 wins 33.9% of battles, but the margins are close enough that track conditions, tire choice, and driver experience swing results regularly.
Choose the Porsche 981 Cayman GT4 if you value its engineering approach and are willing to pay the $59000 premium. Choose the Chevrolet Corvette C5 Z06 if near-identical performance at a different price point appeals to you. Both are proven track weapons with 49 tracks of data backing their capabilities.