Introduction
The project was rumored for years: A new high-end, higher-performance Corvette, alternately known as the Blue Devil and the Corvette SS, would displace the Z06 as the fastest Corvette. Well, it’s finally a reality. For the 2009 model year Chevrolet reaches back into Corvette history for a legendary name: ZR1. When it was introduced for the 1990 model year, the original Corvette ZR1 earned the nickname “King of the Hill.” Its all-aluminum dual-overhead cam LT5 5.7-liter V-8 engine, designed in conjunction with Lotus and built by Mercury Marine, put out an astounding 375 hp and 370 lb.-ft. of torque. Zero to 60 mph came in a blazing 4.9 seconds and the ZR1 bested the quarter mile in 13.4 seconds.
The new ZR1, due this summer, puts those numbers to shame. Powered by a supercharged version of GM’s 6.2-liter V-8 engine called LS9, the ZR1 boasts an SAE-confirmed 638 hp and approximately 604 lb.-ft. of torque. It will be capable of reaching 205 mph and cornering at better than 1 g of lateral grip. Zero to 60 mph and quarter-mile times have not yet been quoted, but they are certain to be the best ever for a Corvette, GM claims. The ZR1 will feature carbon-ceramic brake rotors, carbon-fiber body components, and GM’s Magnetic Selective Ride Control (MSRC) suspension.
The current Corvette lineup includes 2-seat convertible and hatchback coupe body styles. Hatchbacks offer removable roof panels. Like the Z06, however, the 2009 Corvette ZR1 will be offered only as a hatchback coupe with a fixed top. It will go on sale in the summer of 2008. Expect pricing to approach $100,000.
