The Corvette is revered around the world as America's sports car. Over the generations Chevrolet has spawned some specialized models that added to the already potent performance-car's cachet. The Corvette Z06 is that model, with a 7.0-liter, 7100-rpm-redline V-8 dumping a thunderous 505 horses on its aptly named Goodyear Eagle F1 Supercar tires. But apparently that wasn't enough for the boys at GM. They don't just want to compete with the likes of Aston Martins, Ferraris and Porsches; they want a car that'll catch 'em, slap 'em around, call 'em Suzy and then go on to lap 'em. That's the newest ZR1, the most menacing Corvette ever sold.
Before you get your hopes up too high, I'll tell you now: We haven't driven the ZR1 — yet. That's not going to happen until the end of the year. The estimated performance numbers are subject to much debate. Nevertheless, the Z06 has what it takes to be the ultimate track car, as that's its intended function. The ZR1 is developed from the Z06, using its aluminum structure as a starting point. Its engine, transmission, differential, brakes, shocks and springs are all unique. For a more thorough look at the ZR1, see our February 2008 issue.
The heart of the ZR1 is the LS9 6.2-liter supercharged V-8. It's expected to have 620 bhp, or possibly more. Overall, the engine puts out 20 percent more power and torque than the already ferocious LS7 from the Z06! The car has gained roughly 200 lb., even though it employs carbon-ceramic brakes and lightweight carbon-fiber bodywork. The extra weight will hurt performance a bit, but some will be gained back with specialized Michelin tires. We expect slalom and skidpad performance to be affected most.
Corvette ZR1 engineers have said that the Z06 will remain the favorite for track enthusiasts, but for the ultimate get-up-and-go, the ZR1 is the ticket. To make it more confusing, the ZR1, which features Magnetic Ride suspension, will almost certainly have more comfortable ride motions. But when set to Sport, it will be as firm as the Z06. The MR system has the added benefit of helping to control pitch and yaw during acceleration and braking. Of particular interest is the system's launch-control strategy that lets the car squat to aid weight transfer and improve traction.
The Z06 is already the evil twin of the standard LS3 Corvette, but it's not quite the Blue Devil we expect the ZR1 to be. We'll tell you more when we get our hands on the beast.
I still want a 997 GT3 regardless of how many times it get its ass kicked on track by these new beasts.
