In this video from The Fast Lane Car on YouTube, we see a comparison test that pits two affordable used performance cars—the C8 Corvette and BMW i8—against each other before introducing the much pricier 2025 McLaren Artura Spider. Despite contrasting drivetrains, the Corvette and i8 perform closely at Colorado’s high elevation.
The C8 Corvette features a mid-mounted 6.2L naturally aspirated V8, producing 495 horsepower and driving the rear wheels. The BMW i8 features a plug-in hybrid setup, combining a turbocharged 3-cylinder engine with dual electric motors for a total of 369 horsepower. Although outgunned on paper, the i8 benefits from instant electric torque and a lightweight carbon-fiber chassis—making it efficient at altitude.
A 60–100 mph roll race shows how elevation impacts naturally aspirated engines. Despite having more power, the Corvette can’t pull away, and the i8 stays neck and neck thanks to its hybrid torque. In the quarter-mile, the i8’s all-wheel drive and electric assistance give it the edge off the line. It narrowly beats the Corvette, posting a 12.54-second run to the Vette’s 12.55. Its 0–60 time of 4.41 seconds is also close to the Corvette’s.
Then comes the McLaren Artura Spider. At $360,000, it’s in a different league. With a twin-turbo 3.0L V6, electric motor, and 690 combined horsepower, it destroys both rivals. In the same roll race, it leaves the Corvette immediately, and in the quarter-mile, it runs a 10.74 at an elevation of 5,000 feet.
