Corvette ZR1

It was only two years ago that the Z06 was claimed as the fastest corvette ever produced. New times bring new innovations and improvements. General Motors will be offerering its Corvette 2009 model, called the ZR1 beginning August 2008.
 
 The all-new LS9 engine is an improvement of the LS3 6.2-liter block and is expected to deliver 100 horsepower per liter. Enthusiasts can expect the engine to shell out 620 horsepower.

Although performance test numbers are not officially completed, GM officials claim it will it a top speed of 205 mph. However, it’s also a more than likely scenario to say that the ZR1 will go from zero to 60 mph near 3.0 secondsbetter than the Z06 does at 3.6 seconds. In addition,, the Z06 only has 505 horsepower compared to 620 for the new ZR1.

The ZR1, according to personnel at Chevrolet,,has an excellent power to weight ratio that is 52/48 front and rear ratios which has been pushed up ever so slightly from the Z06 and it weighs 200 pounds more.  This is better than the Porsche GT2, the Ferrari 599 Fiorano and Lamborghini’s Murcielago LP640.

Chevy Corvette ZR1 Photos

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The ZR1 features GM's Magnetic Selective Ride Control (MSRC) suspension system which is an adjustable suspension system. The system adjusts every millisecond and offers sharp handling during aggressive driving, and a comfortable luxurious ride when cruising on open roads or along the countryside. Corvette chief engineer’s claim due to the MSRC damping control, the ZR1 has a less jolting ride over bumps than its predecessor, the Z06.

Other tweaks in the chassis area include Brembo calipers which hug large carbon-ceramic rotors which are typically made for Ferrari's Enzo and FXX.  The CCM is needed due to the ZR1 having the largest wheel width and diameter of any Corvette produced. The rims measure 19 inches up front and 20 inches in rear diameter. The width of the rear is a colossal 12 inches, while the front wheels are close behind at 10 inches of width.

It all sounds good, so when can you drive it. You'll have to wait a bit until first spin, which is a few months off. Maybe the number above can convince you to wait for the fastest, high-tech, and perhaps the most unique Corvette ever made.