Porsche 981 Cayman GT4 / Chevrolet Corvette C8 Stingray Z51
Track-Proven Rivals: Porsche 981 Cayman GT4 vs Chevrolet Corvette C8 Stingray Z51
The Porsche 981 Cayman GT4 and Chevrolet Corvette C8 Stingray Z51 represent two distinct approaches to performance, yet LapMeta's comprehensive data reveals remarkably close competition. With 656 head-to-head lap comparisons across 53 common tracks, these cars have been thoroughly tested against each other—and the results might surprise you. Average lap time difference: just 3.93 seconds, with battles as close as 0.01 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 C8 Stingray Z51:
- Engine: 6.2-liter V-8
- Power: 495 hp / 637.23 lb-ft torque
- Weight: 3647 lbs (Power-to-weight: 7.37 lbs/hp)
- Drivetrain: RWD | 8-speed dual-clutch automatic
- 0-60 mph: 2.8s
- Current Value: $80000
Track Performance Analysis
Across 656 recorded laps on 53 different tracks, the data reveals:
- Porsche 981 Cayman GT4 faster: 273 times (41.6%)
- Chevrolet Corvette C8 Stingray Z51 faster: 383 times (58.4%)
- Average difference: 3.93 seconds
- Closest battle: 0.01 seconds
The 110 hp power difference and 597 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 C8 Stingray Z51's 7.37 lbs/hp, explaining much of the on-track dynamic.
The Economics
Current market values show a $14000 gap, with the Porsche 981 Cayman GT4 at $94000 and the Chevrolet Corvette C8 Stingray Z51 at $80000. This price difference—combined with the minimal lap time gap—makes the value proposition clear for budget-conscious track enthusiasts.
The Verdict
With only 3.93 seconds separating these cars on average, driver skill and setup matter far more than spec sheet numbers. The Porsche 981 Cayman GT4 wins 41.6% 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 $14000 premium. Choose the Chevrolet Corvette C8 Stingray Z51 if near-identical performance at a different price point appeals to you. Both are proven track weapons with 53 tracks of data backing their capabilities.