Chevrolet Corvette C8 Z06

In 2021, Chevrolet introduced a “charged” version of the Corvette Z06. This index was first used in 1963 for the optional track package, although the Z06 version appeared in the range on a permanent basis only in 2000. The Z06 was created as a civilian interpretation of the Corvette C8.R racer with modifications, they share the same chassis, engine architecture, proportions and some design details.

“The new Corvette Z06 defines the American supercar,” said General Motors President Mark Reuss. “It builds on the distinctive design and innovative dynamics introduced in the mid-engined Corvette and expands them to deliver refined yet uncompromising racing performance with world-class performance.”

Engine

The previous Corvette C7 Z06 featured a supercharged V8 engine, but the concept has changed for this model. The eighth-generation mid-engined sports car is powered by an all-new LT6 naturally aspirated V8 engine, which features dual overhead camshafts in each aluminum block head, a flat-plane crankshaft and a dry-sump lubrication system. This engine was tested in Corvette C8.R race cars for two years. The 5.5 liter engine had a short stroke geometry and spins up to 8600 rpm, and the compression ratio is 12.5:1. Maximum power – 679 hp. at 8400 rpm, torque – 623 Nm at 6300 rpm. For comparison: the 6.2 liter LT2 engine in the base Corvette Stingray only spun up to 6600 rpm and produced a maximum of 502 hp, although it had more thrust – 637 Nm.

The LT6 engine is hand-built by master engine builders at the Performance Assembly Center at the Bowling Green Assembly Plant in Kentucky. Each engine has a plaque on the intake manifold signed by the technician who built it from start to finish.

Transmission

Power is sent to the rear wheels by an eight-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission, similar to the base Stingray, but with a shorter final drive ratio (5.56:1). This combination allowed the Corvette C8 Z06 to reach 60 mph in 2.6 seconds, which is 0.35 seconds faster than the predecessor C7 Z06 and 0.3 seconds faster than the regular Stingray C8 with the Z51 package.

Suspension

The Corvette Z06's standard Magnetic Selective Ride Control 4.0 suspension has been tuned to suit the modification's features, but also has the ability to select modes between comfort and track programs.

Forged aluminum wheels were standard on the Z06 with five exterior finishes (20/21 inches, front/rear), with carbon fiber wheels available as an option, reducing unsprung weight by 18.6 kg. Tires measuring 275/30 R20 at the front and 345/25 R21 at the rear were basic Michelin Pilot Sport 4S ZP, optional - Michelin Sport Cup 2 R ZP (came as part of the Z07 package).

Brake system

The improved Brembo braking system features larger brake discs, 370mm front and 380mm rear, and 6-piston calipers instead of the 4-piston front found on the Stingray. Equipment included the Stabilitrak stabilization system, launch control, traction control with several programs and an electronic limited slip differential.

Exterior

The Corvette Z06 body received wider fenders to accommodate wider tires and, for the first time for a Z06, the body received original front and rear fascias similar to the Corvette C8.R race car. At the front and rear fenders, the air intakes have been enlarged to allow greater flow through the radiators.

Interior

The interior receives more carbon fiber trim than the regular Corvette (including the steering wheel, depending on the package chosen). There are seven interior colors to choose from, three versions of seats and six belts, several options for hand-trimmed leather interior, including the new Adrenaline Red. There are twelve body colors.

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