For pure, exhilarating power, there are a few sports cars that stand out from the rest. Both the Porsche 911 Carrera and the Chevrolet Corvette are icons on the American roads, and both have been redesigned for 2020. Which is the better car? Kelly Blue Book recently weighed in.

The 2020 Chevrolet Corvette 

The main reason these two cars have a more level playing field this year is because of the 2020 Chevrolet Corvette C8 redesign. After seven generations, the iconic sports car now has a mid-engine design.

This is a big change from the classic engine in front, rear-wheel drive design purists know and love. The switch gives the Corvette better driving dynamics, and puts it in competition with the 911 Carrera.

There’s also enhanced styling on the new Corvette, including hidden door handles and hatch releases, a rear hatch window with a view to the engine, and a lower hood thanks to the new engine placement. It features 19-inch front wheels and 20-inch back wheels with your choice of designs. 

With a starting MSRP of $58,900, the 2020 Chevrolet Corvette boasts a powerful V8 engine that kicks out a gorgeous growl, and excellent handling. Both coupe and convertible have the same engine, a 6.2-liter V8 powerhouse delivering 490 horsepower at 6,450 rpm.

In 2020, the Corvette has advanced to be the most capable and innovative yet. A few drawbacks are a high curb weight and the cabin is a pretty tight squeeze. 

The 2020 Porsche 911 Carrera

This classic Porsche is in its eighth generation, and retains its rear-engine layout. The 2020 Porsche 911 Carrera has made a lot of improvements, such as improved acceleration, rocketing from zero to 60 in four seconds and maintaining a top speed of 182 miles per hour. It also now has better handling and a more comfortable ride for both driver and passengers. 

Under the hood of the 2020 Porsche 911 Carrera is a twin-turbocharged, 6-cylinder boxer engine, which gives this timeless vehicle incredible power when combined with its light weight.

Both the coupe and the cabriolet put out 379 horsepower at 6,500 rpm. All 911 Carreras have two turbochargers, active air intake flaps, an auto start-stop function, and a sports exhaust system.

With an MSRP starting at $97,400, the 911 Carrera is obviously a much higher priced vehicle. High-performance systems like the optional Sport Chrono Package also set it apart. There is a mode-switch dial conveniently located on the steering wheel that lets you take performance into your own hands.

Choose from five driving modes including sport, sport plus, wet, normal, and individual, which lets you tailor the vehicle to your own driving style 

Porsche 911 Carrera remains ahead of the Corvette

Despite their layout differences, these are both powerful vehicles. They have strong engines, brakes that bring all that power to a stop, and precision steering. Both vehicles also offer the convenience of storage in the nose. However, the 2020 Porsche wins out with better handling and acceleration. It also boasts more advanced amenities in the cabin. 

The Corvette has more horsepower, but the 911 Carrera has available all-wheel drive and two-plus-two seating. It also has a better warranty at four years or 50,000 miles vs. three years or 36,000. Both vehicles have similar fuel economy, with the Corvette getting an average of 19 miles per gallon, and the Porsche 911 Carrera getting 20 miles per gallon.

In the end, even though Chevrolet improved the C8 Corvette with an all-new design, and is a more affordable vehicle, the Porsche 911 still wins the day with better long-term value, comfort, and quality.