The Chevrolet Corvette Z06 first debuted in 2001 to serve as the “quickest, best handling production Corvette ever.” The 2008 model continues this tradition, for now. As such, it is equipped with many upgrades from other Corvettes that are aimed at improving its acceleration, braking, and handling capability. The current Z06 is based on the Corvette Coupe that was last redesigned for the 2005 model year, and will lose its performance mantle in 2009 with the arrival of the Corvette ZR1.

Here is what changed on the 2008 Chevrolet Corvette Z06:
• Improved shift feel designed to provide more positive and direct gear changes
• Improved steering feel at all speeds
• New Custom Leather-Wrapped Interior Package
• Upgraded standard metallic interior trim
• Redesigned Keyless Access fob
• Standard equipment includes OnStar with Turn by Turn Navigation, XM satellite radio, auto-dimming rearview mirrors, and auxiliary input jack
• New colors: Jetstream Blue Metallic Tintcoat and Crystal Red Metallic Tintcoat

The 2008 Chevrolet Corvette Z06 is distinct from the Corvette Coupe on which it is based. Visually, the Z06 receives a functional air scoop, a wider front fascia with an air splitter, carbon fiber front fenders, a fixed rather than targa-style roof, wider rear fenders with functional brake cooling scoops, a taller rear spoiler, four larger stainless steel exhaust outlets, and unique 10-spoke wheels sized 18 inches in front and 19 inches in back. Inside, the Z06 logo appears on the 7,000-rpm tachometer, and the seats are upholstered in two-tone leather embroidered with the Z06 logo and contrast stitching.

Mechanically, the Corvette Z06 is different than regular Corvettes. Under the hood, a 7.0-liter V-8 engine (427 cubic inches) makes 505 horsepower at 6300 rpm and 470 lb.-ft. of torque at 4800 rpm running on required premium fuel. Power from the engine, called the LS7, is delivered to a strengthened six-speed manual transmission. An automatic transmission is not offered on the Corvette Z06. Given the LS7’s power ratings and the Z06’s 3,162-pound curb weight, Chevrolet’s claim of zero to 60 mph acceleration in 3.7 seconds is not hard to believe. Chevy also says the Corvette Z06 can cover the quarter mile in 11.7 seconds at 125 mph, can achieve a top speed of 198 mph, can come to a complete stop from 60 mph in 111.3 feet, and can generate 1.04g of maximum lateral acceleration.

The Z06’s engine employs several racing-derived elements, including a dry-sump oiling system, titanium connecting rods, cast aluminum flat-top pistons, and ported high-flow aluminum cylinder heads with titanium intake valves and siamesed valve seats. A limited slip differential, stronger axle half shafts, and tougher universal joints are used for the transmission, while the Z06’s underlying structure is fortified with lightweight aluminum to trim weight. Suspension is firmer through the use of a unique rear transverse leaf spring and larger roll stabilizers and the Z06 rides on Goodyear Eagle F1 extended mobility tires. The brakes are vented and cross-drilled, up to 14-inch discs in front and 13.4-inch disc in back. The red-painted front calipers clamp the discs using six individual brake pads to equalize wear; in back the calipers have four pads.

Chevrolet offers a number of options on the Corvette Z06. New for 2008 is the Custom Leather Wrapped Interior Package, which adds two-tone leather wrapped dashboard, door panels and seats; padded door panel armrests, embroidered logos on the seats and dashboard, and a Bias-pattern center trim plate. Exclusive colors with this package are Linen and Sienna.

The Z06 can also be equipped with side-impact airbags, a Bose audio system, Bluetooth wireless connectivity, a navigation system, and a Homelink programmable universal remote. Heated front seats are available, as well as a memory package that remembers settings for the driver’s seat, side mirrors, and optional power tilt and telescopic steering wheel. Wheels with chrome or Competition Gray finishes are available, and dealers offer several additional accessories for the car. Buyers can even choose to have their new Corvette delivered at the National Corvette Museum in Bowling Green, Kentucky, if they wish.

Standard safety features on the 2008 Chevrolet Corvette Z06 include dual front airbags with passenger sensing technology for the right seat. Side impact airbags are available and dependent on the inclusion of other options. The Z06 is also equipped with antilock brakes and an Active Handling System with a Competition Mode. The Active Handling System is essentially a stability and traction control system, and the Competition Mode allows the driver to turn off the traction control while expanding the car’s handling envelope by delaying the engagement of ABS or stability control. Extended mobility tires allow the Corvette Z06 to be driven as far as 100 miles at 55 mph in the event of tire pressure loss.

J.D. Power and Associates says the Chevrolet Corvette competes against other premium sporty cars such as the BMW 6 Series, Jaguar XK, Mercedes-Benz SL-Class, and Porsche 911.
 
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