### The Z06 and Stingray: Not Identical Twins By Leila Sanders The 2026 C8 Corvette Stingray and its more powerful sibling, the Corvette Z06, have been turning heads in the automotive world. While both cars share the same basic design, there are significant differences between them. The main distinction lies in their engines. The 2026 Corvette Z06 boasts a 5.5-liter naturally-aspirated V8, producing 670 horsepower and 460 pound-feet of torque. In contrast, the C8 Stingray's slightly larger 6.2-liter V8 delivers 490 horsepower and 465 pound-feet of torque as standard. However, those opting for the Z51 package on the Stingray can upgrade its engine to 495 horsepower and 470 pound-feet of torque. This upgrade is a result of the additional clutch plate and the shorter final drive, which enables quicker response and handling the increased torque. ### Engine Differences The Corvette Z06's 5.5-liter LT6 naturally-aspirated V8 is notable for its flatplane ...
### The Z06 and Stingray: Not Identical Twins
By Leila Sanders
The 2026 C8 Corvette Stingray and its more powerful sibling, the Corvette Z06, have been turning heads in the automotive world. While both cars share the same basic design, there are significant differences between them. The main distinction lies in their engines. The 2026 Corvette Z06 boasts a 5.5-liter naturally-aspirated V8, producing 670 horsepower and 460 pound-feet of torque. In contrast, the C8 Stingray’s slightly larger 6.2-liter V8 delivers 490 horsepower and 465 pound-feet of torque as standard.
However, those opting for the Z51 package on the Stingray can upgrade its engine to 495 horsepower and 470 pound-feet of torque. This upgrade is a result of the additional clutch plate and the shorter final drive, which enables quicker response and handling the increased torque.
### Engine Differences
The Corvette Z06’s 5.5-liter LT6 naturally-aspirated V8 is notable for its flatplane crank design, which sets it apart from the Stingray’s crossplane V8. This unique design gives the Z06 its signature high-pitched whine, reminiscent of European exotics. The Stingray’s exhaust note, while not bad, cannot match the intoxicating sound of the Corvette Z06.
The Z06’s rev limit is set at 8,600 RPM, while the Stingray’s cutoff is at 6,500 RPM. This difference in rev limit is a result of the Z06’s shorter final drive and additional clutch plate. The transmission used in both cars is the same 8-speed dual-clutch transmission, but the Z06 has a more aggressive gearing ratio to match its increased torque.
### Chassis Tweaks
The Corvette Z06 has undergone several chassis tweaks, including a specific suspension tune. It comes standard with Magnetic Ride Control (code FE6), but the optional FE7 (part of the Z07 Package) modifies the Mag Ride with track-specific calibrations. The Stingray, on the other hand, uses the base FE1, FE2 with Mag Ride, FE3 Z51, and the FE4 Z51 with Mag Ride.
### Price Point
One of the main differences between the two cars is their price point. The 2026 C8 Corvette Stingray starts at $70,000, which is around $50,000 cheaper than the 2026 Corvette Z06. This price difference is largely due to the engine specifications and the additional features that come with the Z06 package.
### Conclusion
In conclusion, while both the Corvette Z06 and Stingray are exceptional American muscle cars, they cater to different needs and preferences. The Z06 offers a more powerful engine, a more aggressive sound, and a more track-focused suspension. On the other hand, the Stingray provides a more accessible price point and a more comfortable driving experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two cars depends on your priorities and budget.
### 0-60 Time Comparison
The Corvette Z06 is claimed to accelerate from 0-60 mph three-tenths faster than the C8 Stingray, thanks to its more powerful engine and shorter final drive.
### Redline Comparison
The Corvette Z06 has a higher redline at 8,600 RPM, while the Stingray’s cutoff is at 6,500 RPM.
### Specifications Comparison
| | Corvette Z06 | C8 Stingray |
| — | — | — |
| Engine | 5.5-liter LT6 naturally-aspirated V8 | 6.2-liter LT2 naturally-aspirated V8 |
| Power | 670 horsepower | 490 horsepower (standard), 495 horsepower (Z51 package) |
| Torque | 460 pound-feet | 465 pound-feet (standard), 470 pound-feet (Z51 package) |
| Transmission | 8-speed dual-clutch transmission | 8-speed dual-clutch transmission |
| Redline | 8,600 RPM | 6,500 RPM |
| 0-60 mph | 2.9 seconds (claimed) | 3.0 seconds (claimed) |
| Price | Starting at $100,000 | Starting at $70,000 |
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