Corvette Z06

Surprised to see a Corvette on our shortlist? Don’t be: the Z06 can mix it with Europe’s best. Thanks to an awesome 498bhp 7.0-litre V8, the Vette is capable of nearly 200mph. Acceleration is equally stunning, and with a bellowing exhaust it never fails to raise a smile. There’s fun to be had in the corners, too, thanks to strong grip and direct steering. It lapped our circuit in 61.5 seconds – only a second slower than the Lamborghini LP560-4.

However, it takes immense skill to do that kind of lap in the Z06. Switch off the traction control and the Corvette will spin up its rear wheels with only a mild prod of the throttle. Its on-the-limit handling can also catch out the unwary, with the tail end liable to slide as soon as you turn into a bend.

The Z06 also feels a bit of a handful away from the circuit. Its huge size, clunky gearshift and left-hand drive make it a challenge on any B-road. But this only adds to its charm. If our results were based on character alone, the Corvette would clinch a podium position.

CLICK HERE FOR AN EXCLUSIVE ON BOARD HOT-LAP IN THE CORVETTE Z06