Comparing Iconic Sports Cars: Lexus LC 500 Vs Chevy Corvette

Most people visiting a Chevy dealer don’t think of the Corvette as an everyday driver, but for some it definitely is. The same goes for the Lexus LC 500. They may not be fuel efficient, but neither are most large SUVs and trucks. What they are though, are comfortable, powerful, and even practical. Let’s take a look.

Power and Performance

Both cars feature V8 engines. The Lexus LC 500 comes with a 5.0-liter V8 engine that makes 471 horsepower and 398 pound-feet of torque. The engine is mounted in the front and sends its power to the rear wheels with a 10-speed automatic transmission. This engine delivers plenty of power through the RPM range, but even more on the top end.

The Corvette comes with a 6.2-liter V8 that makes 490 horsepower and 470 pound-feet of torque. This engine is a little gutsier than the LC 500 and you can really feel the torque. The Corvette’s engine gets through the powerband a bit faster as well.

Both engines sound great, but the Corvette takes the cake here with the sportier exhaust.

Interior Comfort and Elegance

The Corvette’s interior has definitely improved over the years and is currently quite nice with plenty of leather upholstery and trim. The racecar steering wheel is also eye-catching. However, the LC 500’s interior is admittedly much more striking in comparison. It’s mostly adorned in leather and Alcantara, and the overall design has a certain elegance about it that increases its luxurious feel.

On the other hand, the Corvette offers a better infotainment system. If you get a demo of this system at your Chevy dealer, you’ll see how easy it is to navigate. The premium sound coming from the Bose speakers doesn’t hurt either.

In comparison, the Lexus LC 500 has a rather old system with a touchpad control on the center console. The graphics on the navigation system look extremely dated as well. The LC 500 is due for an update in this area, but right now the Corvette definitely wins.

Everyday Practicality: Handling and Storage

When it comes to handling, the Corvette wins pretty, well, handily. The mid-engine and adaptive suspension give it superior ability around tight turns. The front end naturally feels light, and the exceptionally sharp handling is further sharpened by the magnetic dampers and sticky tires.

The LC 500 feels a little chunky in comparison. It handles well, but the incredible sharpness and agility of the Corvette are simply not there. Comparing the two to cutting tools, the Corvette is like a sharp knife and the LC 500 is more like a buzz saw.

Part of being an everyday driver is practicality. The Corvette wins here too with rear and front trunk storage. The LC 500 can’t really compare with its cramped rear trunk and no front trunk.

In most cases, choosing between these two cars is pretty easy. If you visit your Lexus or Chevy dealer, you’ll see that the Corvette’s price is a lot cheaper at $65,000 versus the LC 500’s $99,000 starting price. Add in the storage space and incredible handling, and the Corvette is an easy choice.