I have always had a soft spot for Corvettes. There was some periods when they were pretty diluted, but the last number of years has brought mind-numbing performance at prices far, far below the Germans or Italians. Sure, it lacks some of the refinement and other stuff, but the monster V-8 is actually cutting edge, the suspension is race-car capable, and the overall package is focused on crushing performance.
What impresses me the most is the passion. The Corvette feels like some rowdy guys with big brains were tasked with "bring the badass!" As much as I love Porsches, their newer products are almost too German. Okay, the turbo is faster than a lot of race cars, but where are the rough edges of 993 and older products? Anyone drive the first of the 3.6L turbos? THAT was a rowdy car!!
I'd buy the ZR-1 and some Recaros. With the change I'd buy an STi winter beater.