Sandbagging? 2020 Corvette Strapped To A Dyno And The Results Are Nuts

The folks at Motor Trend strapped the 2020 Chevrolet Corvette to a dynamometer to see if the 6.2-liter Small Block “LT2" V8 actually makes the stated 495 horsepower, 470 lb-ft. The websites findings?: “The 2020 Chevrolet Corvette C8 provided for all our testing produces more power than what Chevy claims.”

I’m always hesitant to write things like “Dyno proves that [insert automobile]’s horsepower numbers are underrated,” because there’s a lot that goes into horsepower certification, and there are quite a few factors that can cause results from one particular dynamometer to differ from those of another.

PUGPROUD - 10/21/2019 4:08:56 PM

+1 Boost

Performance bargain of the decade!

MDarringer - 10/21/2019 6:43:10 PM

+1 Boost

You have to remember too that this is not a production C8 because production is still a while off.

MDarringer - 10/21/2019 6:17:33 PM

0 Boost

Manufacturers typically underrate performance numbers so that what they claim is delivered rather than not delivered and risk a lawsuit.

Truthy - 10/21/2019 6:49:31 PM

+1 Boost

Good point.

atc98092 - 10/21/2019 7:32:07 PM

+2 Boost

Also for insurance purposes. My 1970 Buick GS 455 Stage 1 was rated at 340 SAE gross HP, but every magazine that tested it found that much or more at the rear wheels. Keeping the HP numbers lower helped a little with insurance premiums back then. Let me tell you, that engine was a beast, hidden in what most people thought was a Skylark.

Tiberius1701A - 10/22/2019 8:10:51 AM

+2 Boost

Ford learned that lesson with the '99 Cobra...I worked as a service advisor at a NE Ohio Ford dealer when we had to do the modifications to get the engines to make the horsepower Ford claimed they made.

valhallakey - 10/22/2019 4:44:13 AM

+2 Boost

That's pretty cool !!! Amazing numbers out of what many would consider to be an old school designed engine. Way to go Chevy, again US is leading the way - USA USA USA !!!

CANADIANCOMMENTS - 10/22/2019 6:12:59 PM

+1 Boost

I wish Chevy had taken a note from Ferrari, Lamborghini or McLaren on how to do an engine design that is supposed to be seen and shown off. A plastic "cap" like a budget priced car isn't acceptable. The engine should be visible and pleasing to look at.

MDarringer - 10/22/2019 8:38:52 PM

+1 Boost

Oh Felicia, your champagne dreams on your Natty Light budget.

CANADIANCOMMENTS - 10/24/2019 12:32:54 PM

0 Boost

I used to want a very fancy exotic car in my youth. These days seeing how poorly most exotic cars are made and what they can cost to maintain, I think I would be happier with a Viper that can be serviced locally, costs nothing to repair and can take a sequential shift upgrade to the transmission. Adjustable pedals hits the spot too!