On paper, a track comparison between the Chevrolet Camaro ZL1 1LE, Corvette ZR1 and Dodge Demon would result in a clear winner.
When Top Gear gathered these three insane American performance cars together, the outcome would seem obvious. Much to our surprise, however, it wasn’t the Corvette ZR1 which came out on top.
To conduct this test, the British publication headed to Thermal Raceway in California and, unlike most track tests, this wasn’t just about seeing which of the three is the fastest. The test was also about discovering which of the three is the best overall package and most suited to use in Europe.
With deputy editor Jack Rix behind the wheel, the first of the trio to be eliminated was the Corvette ZR1. This comes despite the fact that it is the most track-focused of the three, looks the craziest and has an insane 6.2-liter supercharged V8 delivering 755 hp and 715 lb-ft of torque, for a 0-60 mph (96 km/h) time of 2.85 seconds and a 212 mph (341 km/h) top speed.
Second place went to the Dodge Demon. While it’s a surprise to see it beat the mighty ZR1, its straight line performance and (relatively low) pricing makes it one hell of a bargain.
Seeing the Camaro ZL1 1LE come out on top is both unexpected and refreshing. The Camaro is the cheapest of the trio by a considerable $15,000 and the least powerful, with its 6.2-liter supercharged V8 offering up 650 p and 650 lb-ft of torque. Based on this review, however, it appears as though Chevrolet has absolutely nailed the ZL1 1LE and created a car that can rival even the great Porsche 911 GT3 RS.
Now, this is one comparison test we couldn’t predict would turn out the way it did. But you’d better watch the video in full – and feel free to have your say in the comments section right below.