The Corvette Z06 has gone on sale in New Zealand, carrying a $346,000 price tag.
Designed and engineered as a track weapon, the Z06 is set apart by its all-new 5.5L flat-plane crank LT6 V8. It’s the most powerful naturally aspirated V8 to hit the market, cranking out 475kW and 595Nm. The engine spins to a hearty 8600rpm, and offers a unique soundtrack. It runs the 0-100 sprint officially in 3.0sec.
A special suspension tune and larger brakes enhance the Z06’s track credentials. Its enhanced bodywork increases downforce and powertrain cooling efficiency.
Replaceable spoiler flaps, rear brake cooling ducts, a removable front fascia panel and front underwing flaps increase downforce. This helps keep the Z06 planted on track.
A Z07 performance package is a cost option bringing a larger carbon fibre rear wing and ground effects. There’s also a specific Magnetic Ride Control calibration and unique Michelin Cup 2 R ZP tyres, along with Brembo carbon ceramic brakes.
The aerodynamic improvements with the Z07 package lift downforce levels to 333kg at 300km/h, a record for a Corvette.
Optional five-spoke, single-piece carbon fibre wheels save 18.6kgs of unsprung mass. Produced by Carbon Revolution in Victoria, Australia, the carbon fibre wheels are available for both Corvette Z06 and E-Ray models.
The Corvette is now into its eighth generation, the latest the first time it has had the engine behind the driver.
Corvette C1 made its public debut at the GM Motorama concept show in 1953 and production quickly followed.
Boasting a lightweight fibreglass body, distinctive exterior styling, and a six-cylinder Blue Flame engine with 150hp, the C1 Corvette was a uniquely American take on the popular British sports cars of the time.
Two years later it got V8 power. Displacing 4.3L it made 195hp. The engine paired with a three-speed manual alongside the previous two-speed automatic.
C2 came in 1963 and was lighter, leaner, and faster. It introduced the Stingray nameplate for the first time, and also the Z06 option for the track. By 1966 Corvette had a 6.5L V8 while a 427 7.0L V8 would make over 500hp in L88 guise.
The C3 Corvette followed in 1968, lasting until 1982. The ZR1 moniker was introduced for the first time.
Gen C4 Corvette (1984-96) debuted a fresh unibody chassis, overhauled suspension, and more performance. The ZR1 got a DOHC 5.7L V8 and electronically adjustable suspension.
Chevrolet’s LS engines debuted with the C5 Corvette (1997-2004). The C6 Corvette (2005-2013) Z06 and ZR1 models were even more powerful and focused.
In 2014 the C7 Corvette emerged. A mid-engine layout was considered for this generation but didn’t happen until the current C8 generation. The aim was for better weight distribution and driving dynamics.
The latest first for Corvette is the electrified E-Ray with all-wheel drive. Corvette remains one the longest running nameplates to this day.
