2020 Chevrolet Corvette vs 2020 Dodge Challenger

The 2020 Chevrolet Corvette represents a bold departure from its predecessors, adopting a mid-engine layout for unparalleled performance enhancements. The decision to move the engine behind the seats was driven by the limitations of the front-engine, rear-wheel-drive architecture in pushing the performance envelope further. The result is a Corvette that can sprint to 60 mph in just 2.9 seconds with a top speed of 194 mph, powered by a 490 to 495 hp V8 engine, all while being no more expensive than its predecessor. In contrast, the 2020 Dodge Challenger embraced its heritage as a modern muscle car, prioritizing fun and a nod to the past over cutting-edge design changes. Largely unchanged for 2020, it offers new colors, interior options, and a 50th Anniversary package, catering to enthusiasts seeking a blend of traditional muscle car aesthetics with contemporary performance.

Both the 2020 Chevrolet Corvette and Dodge Challenger impress with perfect 10 out of 10 ratings from CarGurus in performance. The Corvette's mid-engine layout, paired with its next-generation 6.2-liter V8 and an advanced dual-clutch transmission, delivers exhilarating acceleration and agility. The Z51 Performance Package further enhances its capabilities, making it a dual-purpose road and track superstar. The Challenger, with its range of powertrains from a 305 hp V6 to the monstrous 797 hp supercharged V8 in the Hellcat Redeye, offers a broad spectrum of performance options. Its ability to combine straight-line speed with improved handling in Widebody variants showcases Dodge's commitment to evolving the Challenger beyond its muscle car roots.

Form and function diverge significantly between the two. The Corvette, rated 5 out of 10, focuses on performance and styling, with some compromises in practicality. Its two trunks offer a combined 12.6 cubic feet of space, and while it supports daily driving and road trips, it can be challenging to enter and exit. The Challenger shines with an 8 out of 10 rating, thanks to its spacious cabin, impressive cargo capacity, and more accommodating interior for daily use and longer journeys, despite its performance-oriented design.

Technology is a strong point for both vehicles, with the Corvette scoring a 10 out of 10 and the Challenger a 9 out of 10. The Corvette's integration of digital instrumentation, intuitive infotainment, and advanced features like the Performance Data Recorder and front lift system reflect its modern, high-tech approach to performance driving. The Challenger's Uconnect system is praised for its ease of use and effective integration of modern conveniences like Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, alongside useful performance metrics and customization options through the SRT Performance Pages.

The Corvette earns an 8 out of 10 for safety, offering a suite of features to enhance visibility and driving confidence, despite a lack of advanced driver assistance systems. The Challenger scores a 5 out of 10, with solid basic safety features and optional aids, but its performance in crash tests and the availability of modern safety technologies lag behind the Corvette.

The Corvette achieves a perfect 10 out of 10 for its unmatched combination of performance, technology, and value, presenting a compelling alternative to much more expensive sports cars. The Challenger's 8 out of 10 reflects its value proposition as a versatile and powerful muscle car that offers significant bang for the buck, especially in its mid-range trims.