Latest Corvette Z06 Promises at Least 625hp From 6.2L V8

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Z06 and C7.R racecar at the North American International Auto Show as the new ultimate versions of the Corvette. When combined with the Z07 performance package, the Z06 is even faster than the previous generation Corvette ZR1Chevrolet Corvette ZR1 ZR-1United States of America, 2009 > present3 photos
. The new Z06 will be available in early 2015, and pricing will be announced then.

The Z06Chevrolet Corvette Z06United States of America, 2015 > present gets a 6.2-liter supercharged V8 that will make a minimum of 625hp and 635lb-ft (861Nm) when it goes on sale. Chevrolet is still in final development of the engine and could push power higher. It is mated to either a seven-speed manual or a brand new eight-speed automatic.

“The Z06 leverages the engineering expertise of GM, offering the choice of two world-class transmissions, supercar performance without supercar fuel consumption and technologies that make it easier to fully enjoy the incredible experience of driving it,” said Mark Reuss, President of General Motors North America.

There will also be an additional Z07 Performance Package that can be added on top of the Z06 that will add a body kit that generates downforce, Michelin Pilot Super Sport Cup tires and Brembo carbon ceramic-matrix brake rotors.

The engine includes tech like direct injection, cylinder deactivation and continuously variable valve timing. The supercharger design integrates both the supercharger and intercooler into the valley between the cylinder heads. It is an inch taller than the standard Corvette’s LT1 engine.

“Practically every exterior change served a functional purpose, as this beast needed more of everything,” said Tom Peters, Corvette design director, “The flared fenders accommodate larger, wider wheels and tires for more grip. The larger vents provide more cooling air to the engine, brakes, transmission and differential for increased track capability. The more aggressive aerodynamic package generates true downforce for more cornering grip and high-speed stability.”

The Magnetic Selective Ride Control suspension is standard on the Z06

The interior is offered with either a GT seat for comfort or sport seats with a magnesium frame.

C7.R

The C7.RChevrolet Corvette C7.RUnited States of America, 2015 > present will make its racing debut on January 25 at the Rolex 24 at Daytona co-developed alongside the Z06, and they share a chassis and basic aerodynamic setup.

Corvette Racing will field two C7.R race cars in 2014 in the entire Tudor United SportsCar Championship and plans to race in the 24 Hours of Le Mans in June.

“We are continually taking what we learn in competition, and applying it to improve production Corvettes – which then make better race cars. As a result, the new Corvette Z06 is the most track-capable production Corvette ever while the new C7.R is poised to be even more competitive on the race circuit,” said Tadge Juechter, Corvette chief engineer.

The C7.R and Z06 share their aluminum frames, and it is 40% stronger than the previous C6.R. The use of the same frame means that the C7.R shares the forward-tilted radiator, functional hood and front-quarter panel vents, and rear transmission and differential cooling intakes with the Z06. They also get additional downforce from new front splitters, rocker panels, and front- and rear-brake cooling ducts.

The C7.R uses the same 5.5-liter V8 from the previous C6.R but modified for direct injection.