Sports Car Showdown: Corvette Z06 vs. Maserati MC20 Cielo

For the past couple of years, we have heard some Dodge enthusiasts speculate about the possibility of Dodge creating a new Halo supercar, potentially based on the mid-engined Maserati MC20. After all, Stellantis has already used the MC20 platform to spawn exclusive models like the Alfa Romeo 33 Stradale and track-focused Maserati MCXtrema. However, after a recent U-Drag Race comparison by Edmunds.com featuring the Maserati MC20 Cielo and Chevrolet Corvette C8 Z06, some of those opinions might shift.

The U-Drag Race: A True Test of Performance – 

Unlike a traditional drag race, Edmunds’ U-Drag Race format pushes cars to their limits in a comprehensive test of acceleration, braking, handling, and cornering grip. Competitors launch down a quarter-mile stretch, slam on the brakes, make a U-turn, and sprint back to the start, simulating real-world performance scenarios beyond straight-line speed.

Maserati MC20 Cielo: Italian Artistry with Twin-Turbo Power – 

The Maserati MC20 Cielo, the convertible variant of the MC20, carries an undeniable presence with its sleek styling and cutting-edge aerodynamics. Powering the Italian supercar is a twin-turbocharged 3.0-liter Nettuno V6 engine, delivering 630 horsepower at 7,500 rpm and 538 lb-ft (730 Nm) of torque between 3,000 and 5,500 rpm. Power is sent to the rear wheels via an 8-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission, allowing the 3,605 lb (1,635 kg) machine to rocket from 0 to 62 mph (0-100 km/h) in roughly 3.0 seconds, with a top speed of 199 mph (320 km/h).

Chevrolet Corvette Z06: The Naturally Aspirated American Beast – 

Going up against the Maserati is the American-engineered and built Chevrolet Corvette C8 Z06, a track-focused beast that has taken the mid-engine formula to another level. Under its hood sits a 5.5-liter naturally aspirated V8, known as the LT6, which screams up to 8,600 rpm while producing 670 horsepower and 460 lb-ft (623 Nm) of torque. The Corvette tips the scales at 3,441 lb (1,561 kg), making it lighter than the MC20 Cielo. Paired with an 8-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission and rear-wheel drive, the Z06 boasts a blistering 0-62 mph (0-100 km/h) time of just over 2.6 seconds and a top speed of around 202 mph (325 km/h).

On paper, the Corvette Z06 holds a slight edge in power and weight, and in both U-Drag races, it proved to be the dominant force. The Z06 not only launched harder but also braked and cornered more effectively than the MC20 Cielo, securing convincing victories in both runs.

However, one of the biggest takeaways from this showdown is the price disparity. The 2024 Maserati MC20 Cielo starts at $273,000 (before adding a $3,995 destination charge), while the 2024 Chevrolet Corvette Z06 1LZ starts at $110,100 (excluding a $2,600 gas guzzler tax and $1,695 destination fee). This raises an important question for those who have long hoped for a Dodge-branded supercar based on the MC20: would a Dodge halo car at Maserati pricing even make sense?

Rethinking a Dodge Supercar – 

Dodge has a legacy of delivering raw, unfiltered American muscle at a price point that enthusiasts can justify. While the idea of a Dodge supercar built on the MC20’s architecture is enticing, the Corvette Z06 proves that performance at a relatively affordable price is still achievable. If Dodge were to return to the supercar segment, perhaps a more cost-effective approach—something closer to the Viper’s philosophy—would be the better move.

For now, enthusiasts may need to rethink their dream of an MC20-based Dodge. With cars like the Z06 offering world-class performance at a fraction of the price, the American supercar market is proving that value and power can still go hand in hand.