The problem with the word "handling" is that no one can agree what it actually means. I think it is because it has both objective and subjective elements.
http://www.scca.com/_Filelibrary/File/2005SoloNationals-FINALresults.pdf
The preceeding link shows the final standings for the 2005 SCCA Solo II National Championships. As many of you already know, Solo II (aka Autocrossing) is a short time-trial event that focuses on low speed handling. The courses are very tight and place a premium on fast transiant response rather than laternal g's. They are also usually no faster than 60-65 mph. Most cars don't get higher than 2nd gear.
You would think a low speed venue with lots of tight turns would place a wide Corvette at a huge disadvantage. But they seem to come out just fine.
In fact, even old C4s can still tango with cars like the S2000, Boxster, M3 and 968 in B-Stock. And in Super Stock, the C5 Z06 does well enough to keep cars like the Elise and even the mighty GT3 from the first place trophy.
Objectively, anyone who thinks Corvettes, going all the way back to the C4 don't hold up well against other sports cars ---even in a race venue that takes away most of their advantages (ie high-speed acceleration/lateral grip )--- is either poorly informed or just in plain denial.
On a subjective level, you're welcome to believe whatever you'd like. I happen to personally think every Corvette I've ever driven has tremendous capability, but little desire to communicate with the driver about where the limits lie. Most of this complaint is leveled at the steering, which has almost no feel until the front tires are sliding and by then its too little, too late.
Thus, driving a Corvette fast usually involves throwing it in and hoping you've judged it correctly. It takes a leap of faith in the car, since the limits are so high. That confidence inspiring level of feedback and communication that other sports cars give you is simply not there.
Now, once the car IS sliding around, I don't remember having anything to complain about as far as chassis behavior goes. The ones that I've driven breaks grip pretty smoothly and progressively and had no bad habits other than the ones the driver brings with him. I haven't driven a C6 yet, though, so all I have to go on are the magazine reviews, which are generally very favorable.
At the end of the day, you can be as dissatisfed over the aloofness of the Corvette as you like, but there is no question the cars will stop, go and turn with the best of them.
M
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