Which is better European exotics or American Muscle???!!!

Which is better:European exotic or domestic muscle? This is not your usual import VS domestic fight, this question is more specific. I mean, you cant argue with the raw power that the American classics produce, but quality went out the window when our economy went to hell. The search for higher profits have cut into the reliability, everyone knows most parts are now substituted with plastic. On the other hand, European cars are known for their perfect handling and sleek looks. Unfortunately they all costs way more than we can afford not only to buy, but maintain! Plus, once you put them on the 1/4 mile they seem to lack the power.

Here are two of the best European and American cars at a race, YOU DECIDE!!!!!

http://www.fullsolo.org/videos/autocross_run/play/188435-2005-lotus-elise-40-ss-ray-leblanc

http://www.fullsolo.org/videos/autocross_run/play/190419-2007-chevrolet-corvette-177-ss-kevin-corn

American muscle tends to be cheaper but also tends to lack in the quality of the overall vehicle. European cars like Lamborghini, Ferrari, Maserati, BMW, Aston Martin, etc tend to be built quite well, but at a much higher price tag. I would say most American muscle cars are geared more towards going fast in a straight line where Euro cars are designed to go around the ring' or a roadcourse. Of course, these are all just generalities. To me, the differences are quite apparent between the two groups.

yeah, I wish exotics were somewhat affordable. But who can pay 400,000 to get a pure exotic?

You can't compare the two in such general terms. They are really two different cars. The fact of the matter is that most exotics out perform American cars in every way. The fit and finish is much better. Also, they are very exclusive. The only thing is that they aren't really meant to be daily driven.

If were going to compare the two videos though, I'll just ignore driver skill here, stock for stock the Elise will kill the Vette on an auto-x course. Those courses are about agility not about brute force. Also, the Elise is about the same price as the Vette.

You can't compare the two in such general terms. They are really two different cars. The fact of the matter is that most exotics out perform American cars in every way. The fit and finish is much better. Also, they are very exclusive. The only thing is that they aren't really meant to be daily driven.

If were going to compare the two videos though, I'll just ignore driver skill here, stock for stock the Elise will kill the Vette on an auto-x course. Those courses are about agility not about brute force. Also, the Elise is about the same price as the Vette.

I agree with the fit and finish, and there is certainly a sense of exclusiveness. But I think more Corvettes win in SS in autocross at the national level

I agree with the fit and finish, and there is certainly a sense of exclusiveness. But I think more Corvettes win in SS in autocross at the national level

That's subjective, based upon driver ability. Also, how many Vettes Vs. Elise are people racing? That's hardly a scientific conclusion. The fact remains that the Elise is the more capable car on an auto-x course than a Vette.

That's subjective, based upon driver ability. Also, how many Vettes Vs. Elise are people racing? That's hardly a scientific conclusion. The fact remains that the Elise is the more capable car on an auto-x course than a Vette.

I agree, but most National courses favor high speed, so Corvettes have an advantage. But I would take the Lotus!

It's like comparing " Apples and Oranges " ! You can't really get an impartial opinion because every one is influenced by so many variables . Just my :2cents:

Well it's different than the normal import v domestic argument

I would take a 997 in any road course. American Muscle are fun to listen to and watch do massive burnouts, but as far as driving experience, fit and finish, looks, and simply all around performance I think Europe takes it in this one.

And what exactly do you mean "lacking" in the quarter mile? I dont think a 500hp, AWD Lamborghini is going to be running poor times. :D

As far as affordability, there is no argument that Euro exotics cant even compete to the value of american muscle. But in the end, if you are trying to use that as a comparison, you cant really call this a legitimate contest, as they are in totally different categories.

I agree with the value, corvettes are super cheap and can out perform most other sports cars

This is one of the oldest arguments int he automotive world, and one that will never be solved.

If I had the money, I'd take Euro right now, but not an exotic. More like an M3 or AMG.

When the Zombie Apocalypse is upon us, I'll be rocking Domestic hands down.

I would take a new M3 over most domestics, but the Corvette can still post a faster lap time

I would take a new M3 over most domestics, but the Corvette can still post a faster lap time

Note the ZA caveat. However, if offered a free either/or, I would take forever to decide between an M3 and an 'Vette. After those two, its a regular 3er, then the new 'Maro.

magic carpet hands down.

After seeing some of the M3s at the Ocean City car show, I would take an M3 over a vette any day of the week.

After seeing some of the M3s at the Ocean City car show, I would take an M3 over a vette any day of the week.

It is just hard for me to turn away an LSx motor. And this is coming from the largest BMW fanboy on the site.

lsx?

LS as in the LS series of motors and the x as in "fill in the blank with a number" such as 1, 3, 6, 7, etc.

I see

The LS1. Build by God, runs on the blood of Jesus.

I would say I would also take a M3 over a standard Vette as well. Both of them can be made however fast you want it to go, but the Vette is just another GM on the road. Their are so many Corvettes around here it could about make your head spin. And after driving the E46 M3 it felt so quiet and well-mannered for a car that is that quick. On top of that the build quality was lightyears ahead of pretty much any GM vehicle. The M3 is just an overall better quality car.

Yeah, I love those new V8 m3s