Performance over poshness. It’s a simple statement that defines the examples in this edition of Auction Dilemma. We check out two cars that emphasize power over the luxury that’s creeping into more and more sports cars. Let’s look at a 2011 Chevrolet Corvette Z06 on Bring a Trailer and a 2014 Nissan GT-R on Doug DeMuro’s Cars & Bids.
2011 Chevrolet Corvette Z06
In designing the C6, like this Corvette Z06, GM emphasized power over creature comforts. And that’s OK. As subsequent generations (the C7 and C8) clearly have progressed in this department. Despite a four-owner history, this very clean Supersonic Blue Metallic Vette benefits from only 19,000 miles on the odometer.
A Z06 represents a sweet spot in the Corvette lineup, as its got more power than the base model but is not as outrageous (or expensive) as the ZR1. In this case, the largest small-block V-8 every built by General Motors. The 7.0-liter engine pumps out (when new) 505 horsepower and 470 lb-ft of torque and is connected to the rear wheels via a six-speed manual. Toss in the weight savings of an aluminum frame and a partial carbon fiber body and zero to 60 mph comes in 3.6 seconds, according to Car and Driver.
Except for some creases on the driver’s seat upholstery, the Z06’s cabin is in near-new shape. Along with the heated black leather seating comes navigation, automatic climate control, and a Bose audio system.
2014 Nissan GT-R
As the modern successor to the storied Skyline GT-R, the GT-R holds a special place in the hearts of JDM lovers and performance car enthusiasts. Unlike the Corvette’s formula of stuffing a straightforward (and massive) engine under the hood, the GT-R relies on technology to hit its numbers. But, like the Vette, it’s an approach that favors function over form. A few minor exterior blemishes don’t seem to detract from the interest in this Deep Blue Pearl GT-R with a modest 32,000 miles on the clock.
This car’s twin-turbocharged 3.8-liter V-6 is factory rated for 545 horsepower and 463 lb-ft of torque, providing a close match-up to the Z06. Yet, Edmunds says this car will hit 60 mph from a standstill in 3.1 seconds, besting its Auction Dilemma counterpart. Perhaps the standard all-wheel-drive and six-speed dual-clutch automatic make the difference.
Minus some wear and tear in the driver’s seat area, the interior of this GT-R is in good shape. Cabin equipment includes black leather upholstery, heated front seats, navigation, dual-zone climate control, and a Bose audio system.
An American GT-R Or A Japanese Corvette?
Both vehicles offer supercar numbers without a supercar price tag. As of this writing, the Corvette auction ends in a day and has a $40,000 high bid. Action on the Nissan GT-R ends in two days with a current $70,000 best offer.
Sources: bringatrailer.com, carsandbids.com