The Chevrolet Corvette ZR1 is a high-performance sports car that has been a favorite among car enthusiasts for decades. With its sleek design, powerful engine, and impressive handling, the ZR1 is a force to be reckoned with on the track and on the road.
The ZR1 has a long and storied history, dating back to the early days of the Corvette. Over the years, the car has evolved and improved, with each new model pushing the limits of what is possible in terms of speed, power, and performance. Today, the ZR1 is one of the most impressive and sought-after sports cars on the market, with a reputation for excellence that is hard to beat.
Key Takeaways about the Corvette ZR1:
- The Chevrolet Corvette ZR1 is a high-performance sports car that is known for its sleek design, powerful engine, and impressive handling.
- The ZR1 has a long and storied history, dating back to the early days of the Corvette, and has evolved and improved with each new model.
- Today, the ZR1 is one of the most impressive and sought-after sports cars on the market, with a reputation for excellence that is hard to beat.
History and Evolution
The Corvette ZR1 has a long and illustrious history that dates back to the 1970s. Over the years, this iconic car has undergone several changes and upgrades, with each new iteration building on the success of its predecessors.
C4 ZR-1
The C4 ZR-1 was introduced in 1989 and was the first Corvette to feature a double overhead cam engine. This high-performance engine was capable of producing 375 horsepower, making it one of the most powerful production cars of its time. The C4 ZR-1 also featured a unique body design that included wider rear fenders and a distinctive rear fascia.
C6 ZR1
In 2009, the C6 ZR1 was introduced, featuring a supercharged 6.2-liter V8 engine that produced a staggering 638 horsepower. This made it the most powerful Corvette ever produced at the time. The C6 ZR1 also featured a number of performance upgrades, including a carbon fiber hood and ceramic brakes.
C7 ZR1
The C7 ZR1 was introduced in 2017 and featured a supercharged 6.2-liter V8 engine that produced 755 horsepower, making it the most powerful Corvette ever produced at the time. The C7 ZR1 also featured a number of performance upgrades, including a carbon fiber rear wing and a unique front fascia.
C8 ZR1
The C8 ZR1 is the latest iteration of the Corvette ZR1, and it is expected to be released in the near future. While details are currently scarce, it is expected to feature a number of performance upgrades, including a new engine and a lighter weight.
Overall, the Corvette ZR1 has a rich history and has evolved over the years to become one of the most iconic sports cars of all time. With each new iteration, the Corvette ZR1 has pushed the boundaries of what is possible in terms of performance, and it is sure to continue to do so in the years to come.
Chevy Corvette ZR1 Review
The 2019 Corvette C7 ZR1 (~$240,000 CAD current market price, ~$165,000 USD current market price) is said to be the last swan song of the front-engine Corvette layout. Before making their switch to mid-engine for the C8, Chevy decided to throw everything at their last beastly C7. It can reach a top speed of 341 kph (212 mph) thanks to its 6.2 L supercharged V8, which stands so tall it needs a shaker hood just so it can fit. Thomas and James put this absolute weapon to the test on the Throttle House Test Track.
Engine and Performance
The Corvette ZR1 is a performance-oriented sports car that boasts a powerful engine and impressive acceleration. This section will explore the key details of the car’s engine and performance.
LT5 Engine
At the heart of the Corvette ZR1 is the LT5 engine, which is a supercharged and intercooled pushrod 16-valve V-8. The engine has an aluminum block and heads, port and direct fuel injection, and a displacement of 376 in³ (6162 cm³). It produces an impressive 755 horsepower at 6300 rpm and 715 lb-ft of torque.
Horsepower and Torque
The Corvette ZR1’s engine produces an impressive 755 horsepower and 715 lb-ft of torque. The horsepower and torque figures are higher than those of the Corvette Z06, which produces 650 horsepower and 650 lb-ft of torque. The LT5 engine’s power output allows the ZR1 to accelerate quickly and reach high speeds.
Top Speed and Acceleration
The Corvette ZR1 has a top speed of 212 mph, making it one of the fastest cars in its class. The car can accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in just 2.85 seconds. These impressive performance figures are due to the car’s powerful engine and aerodynamic design. Learn more about the C7 Zr1 Performance and top speed performance specs.
Transmission Options
The Corvette ZR1 is available with two transmission options: a seven-speed manual transmission and an eight-speed automatic transmission. The manual transmission is a Tremec TR-6070 transmission with active rev matching, while the automatic transmission is a GM 8L90 eight-speed with paddle shifters. The car also features a dual-clutch rear differential that helps to improve traction and handling.
In summary, the Corvette ZR1’s LT5 engine produces an impressive amount of horsepower and torque, allowing the car to accelerate quickly and reach high speeds. The car is available with both a manual and automatic transmission, and features a dual-clutch rear differential that improves handling. This combination of power and performance makes the Corvette ZR1 a true sports car.
Design and Features
The Corvette ZR1 is a high-performance sports car that boasts a sleek and aerodynamic design. It is built with lightweight materials such as aluminum and carbon fiber to enhance its performance and handling.
Exterior Details
The exterior of the Corvette ZR1 is designed to be both stylish and functional. It features a low-slung body with a long hood and short rear deck. The front fascia is aggressive and aerodynamic, with large air intakes to cool the engine and brakes. The hood is adorned with a functional carbon fiber hood scoop that helps to direct air into the engine. The side skirts are also made of carbon fiber, which reduces weight and adds to the car’s overall performance. The rear of the car features a large wing that provides downforce at high speeds.
Interior Comfort
The interior of the Corvette ZR1 is designed to be comfortable and functional. It features a driver-focused cockpit with a flat-bottomed steering wheel and a digital instrument cluster. The seats are made of high-quality leather and are designed to provide support during high-speed driving. The car also comes with a premium sound system and a touchscreen infotainment system.
The Corvette ZR1 shares many design features with its predecessor, the Corvette Z06. However, the ZR1 boasts a more aggressive and aerodynamic design, with a larger rear wing and more carbon fiber accents. The Grand Sport is another Corvette model that shares similar exterior design elements with the ZR1. However, the Grand Sport is not as powerful as the ZR1 and does not feature as much carbon fiber in its design.
In conclusion, the Corvette ZR1 is a high-performance sports car that boasts a sleek and aerodynamic design. It is built with lightweight materials such as aluminum and carbon fiber to enhance its performance and handling. The exterior is designed to be both stylish and functional, while the interior is designed to be comfortable and functional.
Handling and Suspension
The Corvette ZR1 is a high-performance sports car that is designed to provide exceptional handling and suspension. The car’s handling and suspension are crucial to its performance, and they play a significant role in providing a smooth and comfortable ride.
Chassis and Frame
The ZR1’s chassis and frame are designed to provide maximum rigidity and strength, which is essential for high-performance driving. The car’s chassis is made of aluminum, which makes it lightweight and strong. The frame is also made of aluminum, which helps to reduce weight and improve handling.
The ZR1’s chassis and frame are optimized for performance driving. The car’s suspension is tuned to provide excellent handling and stability, which is essential for high-speed driving. The car’s chassis and frame are also designed to provide excellent weight distribution, which helps to improve handling and stability.
Brakes and Stability Control
The ZR1’s brakes and stability control are designed to provide exceptional stopping power and stability. The car’s brakes are high-performance Brembo brakes, which are designed to provide excellent stopping power. The brakes are also designed to provide excellent heat dissipation, which helps to prevent brake fade.
The car’s stability control system is designed to provide excellent stability and control. The system uses sensors to monitor the car’s speed, acceleration, and steering angle. If the system detects that the car is losing control, it will apply the brakes to specific wheels to help stabilize the car.
In conclusion, the Corvette ZR1’s handling and suspension are designed to provide exceptional performance and stability. The car’s chassis and frame are optimized for high-performance driving, and the brakes and stability control are designed to provide exceptional stopping power and stability. Overall, the ZR1 is an exceptional sports car that is designed to provide an outstanding driving experience.
Tire and Wheel Performance
The Corvette ZR1 is known for its impressive tire and wheel performance. The car comes with Michelin Pilot Sport Cup 2 tires, which are designed to provide maximum grip and handling in both dry and wet conditions. These tires are specifically engineered for high-performance sports cars and are a popular choice among Corvette enthusiasts.
The Michelin Pilot Sport Cup 2 tires are made with a special compound that provides exceptional grip and handling, even at high speeds. The tires feature a tread pattern that is optimized for maximum grip on the track, and they are designed to provide excellent performance in both dry and wet conditions.
In addition to the tires, the rear wheels on the Corvette ZR1 are also designed for maximum performance. The wheels are wider than those found on other Corvette models, which helps to provide better grip and handling. The wider rear wheels also allow for larger tires to be used, which further enhances the car’s performance capabilities.
Overall, the combination of the Michelin Pilot Sport Cup 2 tires and wider rear wheels make the Corvette ZR1 a true high-performance sports car. Whether on the track or on the street, the car is designed to provide maximum grip, handling, and performance in all conditions.
Future and Upcoming Models
The Corvette ZR1 has been a fan favorite for years, and Chevrolet is always looking to improve upon its already impressive design. As of 2023, there are several future and upcoming models that Corvette enthusiasts can look forward to, including hybrid and electric models, as well as Zora and E-Ray models.
Hybrid and Electric Models
Chevrolet has been making strides in the electric vehicle market, and the Corvette is no exception. The upcoming C9 Corvette is rumored to be fully electric, but until then, there are hybrid models in the works. The C8 Corvette ZR1 is expected to have a hybrid powertrain, which will likely include an electric motor to supplement the gasoline engine. This will not only increase power output but also improve fuel efficiency.
Zora and E-Ray Models
The Zora and E-Ray models are also in the works. The Zora is rumored to be a mid-engine all-wheel-drive supercar that will sit above the ZR1 in the Corvette lineup. It is expected to have a twin-turbocharged V8 engine and an electric motor to provide additional power. The E-Ray, on the other hand, is expected to be an all-electric version of the Corvette. It will likely have a similar powertrain to the C9 Corvette and be capable of producing over 600 horsepower.
Chevrolet has not released many details about these models yet, but they are sure to excite Corvette enthusiasts. With the addition of hybrid and electric powertrains, as well as all-wheel-drive capabilities, the Corvette is set to become even more powerful and versatile than ever before.
Fuel Efficiency
The 2019 Chevrolet Corvette ZR1 is a high-performance sports car that offers impressive fuel efficiency for its class. According to FuelEconomy.gov, the ZR1’s EPA fuel economy rating is 15 miles per gallon (MPG) for combined city and highway driving, with 12 MPG in the city and 20 MPG on the highway.
While these numbers may seem low compared to other vehicles, it is important to note that the ZR1 is a powerful sports car with a 755-horsepower supercharged V8 engine. The car’s fuel efficiency is also impacted by its aerodynamic design and lightweight construction, which are optimized for speed and handling rather than fuel economy.
It is worth noting that the ZR1 requires premium gasoline, which can be more expensive than regular gasoline. However, the car’s fuel tank capacity of 18.5 gallons allows for a decent driving range before needing to refuel.
Overall, the 2019 Chevrolet Corvette ZR1 offers respectable fuel efficiency for a high-performance sports car. While it may not be the most fuel-efficient vehicle on the market, its impressive power and speed make it a top choice for enthusiasts who prioritize performance over fuel economy.
Racing and Track Performance
The Corvette ZR1 is a high-performance sports car that is built for speed and agility. It has been designed to excel on the track, and it has proven itself time and time again in various racing competitions. In this section, we will explore the ZR1’s racing and track performance capabilities.
Drag Racing
The Corvette ZR1 is a beast when it comes to drag racing. With a top speed of over 200 mph, it can go from 0 to 60 mph in just 2.8 seconds. It has a 755-horsepower engine that delivers 715 lb-ft of torque, making it one of the most powerful production cars on the market.
ZTK Package
The ZTK package is an optional add-on for the Corvette ZR1 that is designed to enhance its track performance. It includes a high wing that provides additional downforce, as well as a front splitter and Michelin Pilot Sport Cup 2 summer-only tires. The ZTK package also includes specific tuning for the chassis and Magnetic Ride Control system, which improves handling and stability on the track.
The ZTK package has been tested extensively on the track, and it has been shown to improve the ZR1’s lap times by up to three seconds. It is a must-have for anyone who wants to take their ZR1 to the track and push it to its limits.
In conclusion, the Corvette ZR1 is a top-performing sports car that excels in racing and track performance. Its impressive speed, power, and agility make it a force to be reckoned with on the track. The ZTK package is a must-have for anyone who wants to take their ZR1 to the next level and experience the full potential of this amazing sports car.
Comparison with Other Models
The Corvette ZR1 is an impressive vehicle, but how does it compare to other models in the Corvette lineup? Let’s take a closer look at how the ZR1 stacks up against the Corvette Z06 and the Corvette Grand Sport.
Corvette Z06
The Corvette Z06 is a high-performance sports car that boasts a 650-horsepower V8 engine. It is capable of accelerating from 0 to 60 mph in just 2.95 seconds, making it one of the fastest cars in the world. In terms of price, the Z06 is more affordable than the ZR1, making it a popular choice among Corvette enthusiasts who want a high-performance car without breaking the bank.
When it comes to performance, the ZR1 has a slight edge over the Z06. With a 755-horsepower V8 engine, the ZR1 is capable of reaching speeds of up to 212 mph, making it one of the fastest production cars on the market. However, the Z06 is still an impressive car in its own right and offers plenty of power and performance for most drivers. The latest version of the C8 the C8 Z06 is one of the most sought after Corvettes. There are people speculating that the C8 Z06 will be the last naturally aspirated Corvette that isn’t assisted with electric motors like the new ERay.
Corvette Grand Sport
The Corvette Grand Sport is a mid-range sports car that offers a balance of performance and comfort. It features a 6.2-liter V8 engine that delivers 460 horsepower and can accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in just 3.6 seconds. The Grand Sport is also more affordable than the ZR1 and offers a more comfortable ride, making it a popular choice for drivers who want a sports car that they can drive every day.
Compared to the ZR1, the Grand Sport is less powerful and has a lower top speed. However, it still offers plenty of performance and is a more practical choice for drivers who want a sports car that they can use for daily driving.
Overall, the Corvette ZR1 is an impressive car that offers unmatched performance and speed. However, the Z06 and the Grand Sport are still excellent cars in their own right and offer plenty of power and performance for most drivers.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the specifications of the Corvette ZR1?
The 2025 Chevrolet Corvette ZR1 is expected to be an all-new model and is anticipated to share components with the Corvette Z06. The ZR1 is expected to bring a more powerful engine, improved aerodynamics, and more advanced technology to the table. As of now, the exact specifications of the Corvette ZR1 are not yet available.
How does the Corvette ZR1 compare to the Z06?
The Corvette ZR1 is expected to be more powerful and have more advanced technology than the Z06. It is expected to have improved aerodynamics and a more aggressive design. However, until the exact specifications of the Corvette ZR1 are released, it is difficult to make a direct comparison.
What is the 0-60 time for the Corvette ZR1?
As of now, the 0-60 time for the Corvette ZR1 is not yet available. However, based on the previous ZR1 models, it is expected to be in the range of 2.8 to 3 seconds.
How much does a Corvette ZR1 cost?
The price of the Corvette ZR1 is not yet available in the C8 version. However, based on the previous ZR1 models, it is expected to be more expensive than the Z06, which starts at around $80,000.
In 2019, when the Corvette ZR1 came out this was the starting pricing depending the specs and options. Now they are going for high 100s to even in the 200s hundreds of thousands of dollars.
STARTING MSRP
$121,995 (incl. DFC) – coupe1
$124,990 (incl. DFC) – coupe with ZTK Track Performance Package1
$126,495 (incl. DFC) – convertible1
$129,490 (incl. DFC) – convertible with ZTK Track Performance Package1
Why is the Corvette ZR1 so expensive?
The Corvette ZR1 is expected to be more expensive than the Z06 due to its advanced technology, improved aerodynamics, and more powerful engine. Additionally, the limited production of the ZR1 may also contribute to its higher price.
What was the last year that the Corvette made a ZR1?
The last year that the Corvette made a ZR1 was in 2019. The 2019 Corvette ZR1 was noted for its 755-horsepower engine, improved aerodynamics, and user-friendly design. The 2019 ZR1 was named Motor Authority Best Car To Buy 2019 after it vaporized the competition.