While the new Chevrolet Corvette E-Ray is an essential step in the Corvette’s transition from a sports car to a world-class supercar, fans shouldn’t forget the importance of the C8 Stingray. The C8 Stingray took the performance namesake and added mid-engine magic. So, how does the new E-Ray compare to the 2022 Corvette Stingray Z51, a comparatively analog V8 application? 

Why is the new Corvette so fast?

Every C8 Corvette is fast; even the entry-level Stingray can run a sub-two-second sprint to 60 mph. The new Corvettes are so fast because of the engine position and power-to-weight ratio.  

In terms of the 2022 Chevrolet Corvette Stingray and the upcoming hybrid E-Ray, both cars use a mid-engine layout that the Bow Tie started using in 2020 for the first C8-generation model. By pushing the engine further back, Chevrolet created much better weight distribution. That’s why most of the world’s high-performance supercars and hypercars have a mid-engine orientation. 

Still, while the 2022 Corvette Stingray makes do with a 490-horsepower 6.2L LT2 V8 (495 horsepower with the performance exhaust option), the new 2024 E-Ray adds a 160-horsepower front-mounted electric motor that creates an eAWD platform. As a result, the new hybrid Plastic Fantastic exhibits grippier launches and more sure-footed handling in inclement weather.   

What is the 2022 Corvette’s 0 to 60 mph time?

The 2022 Chevrolet Corvette Stingray Z51 hits 60 mph in just 2.8 seconds. That makes the Stingray supercar quick but not quite as swift as the upcoming hybrid model. Specifically, the new E-Ray will hit 60 mph in just 2.5 seconds, making it the quickest Corvette to date.  

However, the two cars will have nearly the same top speed on paper. According to Car and Driver, the 2022 Corvette Stingray Z51 has a manufacturer’s claimed top speed of around 184 mph. That’s about four mph more than what Chevrolet is saying about its new hybrid high-performance model. 

How much is the E-Ray Corvette?

The new 2024 Chevrolet Corvette E-Ray demands a sizable premium over the Stingray. The entry-level E-Ray 1LZ starts at $104,295, and the convertible 1LZ bumps the price up to $111,295. However, a range-topping convertible 3LZ can start as high as $122,245.

That puts the E-Ray at nearly $40,000 more than a comparable Stingray. That’s a steep ask considering the performance credentials of the non-hybrid Stingray.  

Is the 2022 Corvette worth it?

The 2022 Chevrolet Corvette Stingray is a performance bargain of epic proportions. It is quite simply one of the quickest cars at its price point. Moreover, with a Z51 performance package, removable roof coupe, and hardtop convertible, the Stingray is surprisingly versatile.  

Moreover, the Stingray demands considerably less money than its razor-sharp Z06 or hybrid E-Ray siblings. Still, with astronomical dealership markups, you’ll be hard-pressed to find a 2022 Chevrolet Corvette for a reasonable price. However, even with the Stingray’s performance bargain status, the E-Ray is a technological leap compared to the Stingray, bringing world-class performance and a hybrid application to Chevrolet’s tenured performance model. 

Which one would you rather have? Tell us in the comments below!