Chevrolet Corvette C6
Encyclopedia
The Chevrolet Corvette is a sports car
produced by the Chevrolet
division of General Motors
introduced for the 2005 model year
. The current generation Corvette is the first with exposed headlamp
s since the 1962 model. Variants include the ZR1, the most powerful production
Corvette to date, and the C6.R, an American Le Mans Series
GT1 championship and 24 Hours of Le Mans
GTE-Pro winner. According to Motor Trend
magazine, the current sixth generation Corvette will not be superseded at least until the 2012 calendar year.
and a much higher level of refinement. Overall, it is 5.1 inches (13 cm) shorter than the C5
, but its wheelbase has increased by 1.2 inches (3 cm). It is also one inch (2.5 cm) narrower. The 6.0 L LS2 V8 produces 400 hp (298 kW) at 6000 rpm and 400 lb·ft (542 N·m) of torque
at 4400 rpm.
With an automatic transmission
, the Corvette achieves 15/25 mpg (city/highway); the manual-transmission
model gets 16/26 mpg. The Corvette's manual transmission is fitted with Computer Aided Gear Shifting (CAGS), obligating the driver to shift from 1st directly to 4th when operating at lower RPMs. This boosts the EPA's
derived fuel economy thus allowing the buyer to avoid paying the "gas guzzler" tax. GM badges were added to the car in 2006.
For the 2008 model, the Corvette received a new engine, the LS3
. With displacement increased to 6.2 liters (376 cu in; 6162 cc), power was increased to 430 hp at 5900 rpm and 424 lbft of torque at 4600 rpm, or 436 hp and 428 lbft with the optional vacuum actuated valve exhaust. The previous Tremec
T56 transmission on manual Corvettes was replaced with a new version, the TR6060, in model year 2008. Manual Corvettes have improved shift linkage; the automatic model is set up for quicker shifts, and (according to Chevrolet) goes from 0 to 60 mph
in 4.3 seconds, faster than any other production automatic Corvette. From 2008 onward, steering was revised for improved feel and the wheels were updated to a new five-spoke design.
(7,008 cc/427.6 cu in) version of the Small-Block engine codenamed LS7, which produced 505 hp (376 kW). In addition to the larger engine, the Corvette Z06 has a dry sump
oiling system, and connecting rod
s made out of titanium
alloy. The frame of the Z06 is constructed from aluminum, saving 136 pounds over the standard steel frame. Other weight saving measures such as balsa wood/carbon fiber composite floors and a magnesium alloy engine cradle were used.
For 2011 the Z06 carbon edition was introduced, which carries over multiple parts from the ZR1 including carbon ceramic brakes, active suspension, and other carbon fiber aerodynamic pieces. Most of these options can be ordered through the Z07 package on the Z06 except for the carbon edition specific hood. Only 500 Z06 Carbon Editions will be made. The Z06 officially weighed 3180 lb (1421 kg), giving it a weight to power ratio of 6.3 lb
/hp (3.8 kg
/kW), allowing it to achieve a fuel economy of 15 miles per US gallon in the city and 24 miles per US gallon on the highway
. The Z06 was the official pace car for both the 2006 Daytona 500
and the Indianapolis 500
race. Car and Driver
recorded a 0-60 mph time of 3.6 seconds and 1/4 mile in 11.8 seconds at 122 mph in a March 2007.
's alma mater, Duke University
). The car was originally rumored to feature a supercharged
LS7
engine producing more than 650 hp with prices reported to exceed $124,000.99 USD.
The October 12, 2006 issue of AutoWeek
published photos by photographer Chris Doane of a C6 with special auto-manufacturer-issued license plates on a Z06 with a hood bulge, widely thought to confirm the presence of a supercharger on the Blue Devil. Other names attached to the project included Corvette SS and Corvette Z07. In February 2007, a worker at a Michigan shipping company posted pictures online of a powertrain development mule
that was being shipped to Germany, believed to be part of the Blue Devil program. The car had manufacturer's license plates, carbon-ceramic brakes, enlarged fender vents, a hood bulge, and an engine with a positive-displacement supercharger in the valley between the cylinder banks and a water-to-air intercooler atop it.
GM began to release details on the Blue Devil project in April 2007, and revealed the ZR1 in December. The company confirmed the existence of the project in an interview with Car and Driver on April 13. Power levels were confirmed to be between 600 hp, but contrary to prior rumors of a supercharged 6.2 liter engine, the engine was only confirmed to have greater displacement than the 7.0 liter LS7 in the Z06. Motor Trend confirmed the official name for the production Blue Devil, resurrecting the old ZR1 nameplate. The ZR1 had originally been used on developmental cars in 1971, and again as ZR-1 as the top performance model on the C4 Corvette
. General Motors officially revealed the 2009 Corvette ZR1 on December 19, giving a press release and photographs of the car. GM confirmed a supercharged 6.2 L LS9 V8 producing 638 hp. Performance figures were not released, but GM acknowledged that the car was capable of 205 mi/h, making it the fastest production Corvette ever.
Carbon fiber
is used on the roof, hood, fenders, front splitter, and rocker moldings; the hood and fenders are painted over, while the roof and splitter are merely covered in a clear-coat, retaining their black color. A polycarbonate
window is placed in the center of the hood, allowing the engine intercooler to be seen from the exterior. The wheels are the largest ever placed on a production Corvette, with both front and rear wheels increasing in size and diameter over the Corvette Z06. Carbon-ceramic brakes are included. The brake calipers are painted blue, as are the engine intercooler trim and the ZR1 logo. Magnetic Selective Ride Control is also included on the car, with sensors to automatically adjust stiffness levels based on road conditions and vehicle movement.
All-new LS9 supercharged 6.2L V-8 targeted at producing at least 100 horsepower per liter, or 620 horsepower (462 kW), and approximately 595 lb.-ft. of torque (823 Nm) The supercharged 6.2-liter V8 in the Chevy Corvette ZR1 produces 638 horsepower, 604 ft-lb torque. Top speed 205 mph.
Six-speed, close-ratio, race-hardened manual transmission.
New, high-capacity dual-disc clutch.
Higher-capacity and specific-diameter axle half-shafts; enhanced torque tube.
Specific suspension tuning provides more than 1g cornering grip.
Twenty-spoke 19-inch front and 20-inch rear wheels.
Michelin Pilot Sport 2 tires – P285/30ZR19 in front and P335/25ZR20 in the rear – developed specifically for the ZR1.
Standard carbon-ceramic, drilled disc brake rotors – 15.5-inch-diameter (394-mm) in the front and 15-inch-diameter (380-mm) in the rear.
Larger brake calipers with substantially increased pad area.
Standard Magnetic Selective Ride Control with track-level suspension.
Wider, carbon-fiber front fenders with ZR1-specific dual vents.
Carbon-fiber hood with a raised, polycarbonate window – offering a view of the intercooler below it.
Carbon-fiber roof panel, roof bow, front fascia splitter and rocker moldings with clear-coated, exposed carbon-fiber weave.
ZR1-specific full-width rear spoiler with raised outboard sections.
Specific gauge cluster with boost gauge (also displayed on the head-up display) and 220-mph (370 km/h) speedometer readout.
Only two options: chrome wheels and a “luxury” package.
Curb weight of approximately 3,350 pounds (1,519 kg)
. The Grand Sport equipment package replaced the previous Z51 package and includes the following:
The Grand Sport can be ordered with 1LT, 2LT, 3LT and 4LT trim packages.
Other features include the Z06 brake package featuring 14 in (356 mm) front and 13.4 in (340 mm) brakes with 6/4-piston front/rear calipers. Manual models also include a dry sump system from the Z06 and ZR1, and launch control. The upgrade costs $6,000US.
LS2 was replaced by LS3 in 2008MY vehicles.
LS3 engine in the GS convertible is wet sump instead of dry sump.
's Fun Collection for 2008 in targa versions. 350 convertibles were produced for Hertz in 2009. All cars were finished in yellow with a broad black stripe along the hood and roof.
100 units of each model (600 total) were built, each carrying a $7,840 premium over standard models.
with the help of Pratt & Miller Engineering
. The Z06X features racecar components such as: carbon fiber adjustable rear wing, carbon fiber front splitter, full roll cage, fire suppression system, race seat, harness, carbon ceramic brakes, upgraded cooling system, polycarbonate rear window, adjustable coilovers, adjustable sway bars, tow hooks and radio, interior carpeting and sound-deadining materials have been removed. The suspension system was designed and supplied by Pfadt Race Engineering.
The C6.R was a replacement for the C5-R, built by Pratt & Miller
, and unveiled for its first competition at the 2005 12 Hours of Sebring
endurance race of the American Le Mans Series
. It came in second and third in its class, just behind the new Aston Martin DBR9
race car. It was put on display a week later at the New York International Auto Show
next to the Z06.
In 2006, the Corvette C6.R won both American Le Mans GT1 Championships: Teams and Manufacturers. On March 17, 2007 it won the GT1 class in the 12 Hours of Sebring
.
For Le Mans 2007, four C6.R's were on the entry list, the two Corvette Racing entries joined by single entries from the Luc Alphand Aventures and PSI-Motorsport teams.
The heart of the C6.R, its LS7.R motor, was crowned as Global Motorsport Engine of the Year by a jury of 50 race engine engineers on the Professional Motorsport World Expo 2006 in Cologne, Germany.
For 2011, the aerodynamics of the ALMS cars were modified to be similar to the ZR1
. This car has since won the 2011 24 Hours of Le Mans
in the GTE-Pro and GTE-Am classes.
In addition to the American Le Mans Series
, Corvette C6.Rs also race in the FIA GT1 World Championship
. The GT1 cars are given more power and have less aerodynamics restrictions than the Le Mans cars, which follow GT2 regulations.
series as a GT3 class car, the Z06-R is a modified production Z06. Changes were necessary to make the car endurance race ready. These include a stripped interior, full rollcage for safety, center-locking wheels, carbon fiber doors, rear deck spoiler and front splitter. The engine and drivetrain are stock but the former is mapped for 97 octane race fuel. The result is a 7200 rpm redline, 200 higher than stock and 40 extra horsepower. The car is not road legal.
Eight Z06-R were constructed by Callaway Competition GmbH in Leingarten
, Germany, for the 2006 season. The French team Riverside campaigned a three car team. In an effort to achieve parity among the disparate participants of the GT3 Series, three forms of handicapping were applied by the FIA regulators: additional vehicle weight, ride height, and tire compound selection. The Corvettes were raced with all three handicaps employed. The Z06R won the FIA GT3 European Championship in its second year of entry. By 2011, all Z06-R teams discontinued their racing efforts in GT3, ending the car's FIA career. Z06-Rs are also campaigned in national championships.
Sports car
A sports car is a small, usually two seat, two door automobile designed for high speed driving and maneuverability....
produced by the Chevrolet
Chevrolet
Chevrolet , also known as Chevy , is a brand of vehicle produced by General Motors Company . Founded by Louis Chevrolet and ousted GM founder William C. Durant on November 3, 1911, General Motors acquired Chevrolet in 1918...
division of General Motors
General Motors
General Motors Company , commonly known as GM, formerly incorporated as General Motors Corporation, is an American multinational automotive corporation headquartered in Detroit, Michigan and the world's second-largest automaker in 2010...
introduced for the 2005 model year
Model year
The model year of a product is a number used worldwide, but with a high level of prominence in North America, to describe approximately when a product was produced, and indicates the coinciding base specification of that product....
. The current generation Corvette is the first with exposed headlamp
Headlamp
A headlamp is a lamp, usually attached to the front of a vehicle such as a car or a motorcycle, with the purpose of illuminating the road ahead during periods of low visibility, such as darkness or precipitation. Headlamp performance has steadily improved throughout the automobile age, spurred by...
s since the 1962 model. Variants include the ZR1, the most powerful production
Production vehicle
A production vehicle is one that is put into mass production, as a model produced in large numbers and offered for sale to the public. It is the vehicle you can actually go out and buy ....
Corvette to date, and the C6.R, an American Le Mans Series
American Le Mans Series
The American Le Mans Series presented by Tequila Patrón is a sports car racing series based in the United States and Canada. It consists of a series of endurance and sprint races, and was created in the spirit of the 24 Hours of Le Mans. Teams compete in one of five classes: LMP1, LMP2 and LMPC...
GT1 championship and 24 Hours of Le Mans
24 Hours of Le Mans
The 24 Hours of Le Mans is the world's oldest sports car race in endurance racing, held annually since near the town of Le Mans, France. Commonly known as the Grand Prix of Endurance and Efficiency, race teams have to balance speed against the cars' ability to run for 24 hours without sustaining...
GTE-Pro winner. According to Motor Trend
Motor Trend
Motor Trend is an American automobile magazine. It first appeared in September 1949, issued by Petersen Publishing Company in Los Angeles, and bearing the tag line "The Magazine for a Motoring World". Petersen Publishing was sold to British publisher EMAP in 1998, who sold the former Petersen...
magazine, the current sixth generation Corvette will not be superseded at least until the 2012 calendar year.
Overview
The Corvette C6 was virtually all new including new bodywork with exposed headlamps, an overhaul of the suspension geometry, a larger passenger compartment, a larger 6.0 L (364 cu in; 5967 cc) engineInternal combustion engine
The internal combustion engine is an engine in which the combustion of a fuel occurs with an oxidizer in a combustion chamber. In an internal combustion engine, the expansion of the high-temperature and high -pressure gases produced by combustion apply direct force to some component of the engine...
and a much higher level of refinement. Overall, it is 5.1 inches (13 cm) shorter than the C5
Chevrolet Corvette C5
The Chevrolet Corvette is a sports car produced by the Chevrolet division of General Motors for the 1997 through 2004 model years.- Overview :...
, but its wheelbase has increased by 1.2 inches (3 cm). It is also one inch (2.5 cm) narrower. The 6.0 L LS2 V8 produces 400 hp (298 kW) at 6000 rpm and 400 lb·ft (542 N·m) of torque
Torque
Torque, moment or moment of force , is the tendency of a force to rotate an object about an axis, fulcrum, or pivot. Just as a force is a push or a pull, a torque can be thought of as a twist....
at 4400 rpm.
With an automatic transmission
Automatic transmission
An automatic transmission is one type of motor vehicle transmission that can automatically change gear ratios as the vehicle moves, freeing the driver from having to shift gears manually...
, the Corvette achieves 15/25 mpg (city/highway); the manual-transmission
Manual transmission
A manual transmission, also known as a manual gearbox or standard transmission is a type of transmission used in motor vehicle applications...
model gets 16/26 mpg. The Corvette's manual transmission is fitted with Computer Aided Gear Shifting (CAGS), obligating the driver to shift from 1st directly to 4th when operating at lower RPMs. This boosts the EPA's
United States Environmental Protection Agency
The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency is an agency of the federal government of the United States charged with protecting human health and the environment, by writing and enforcing regulations based on laws passed by Congress...
derived fuel economy thus allowing the buyer to avoid paying the "gas guzzler" tax. GM badges were added to the car in 2006.
For the 2008 model, the Corvette received a new engine, the LS3
GM LS engine
The GM LS engine family is an engine design intended as the only V-8 engine used in General Motors' line of rear-wheel-drive cars and trucks. The LS series was a "clean sheet" design with little in common with the classic Chevrolet small block V8...
. With displacement increased to 6.2 liters (376 cu in; 6162 cc), power was increased to 430 hp at 5900 rpm and 424 lbft of torque at 4600 rpm, or 436 hp and 428 lbft with the optional vacuum actuated valve exhaust. The previous Tremec
Transmission Technologies Corporation
Transmission Technologies Corporation is an American manufacturer of automobile transmissions, best known for their TREMEC line of manual transmissions...
T56 transmission on manual Corvettes was replaced with a new version, the TR6060, in model year 2008. Manual Corvettes have improved shift linkage; the automatic model is set up for quicker shifts, and (according to Chevrolet) goes from 0 to 60 mph
0 to 60 mph
The time it takes to accelerate from 0 to 60 mph is a commonly used performance measure for automotive acceleration in the United States and the United Kingdom. In the rest of the world 0 to 100 km/h is used...
in 4.3 seconds, faster than any other production automatic Corvette. From 2008 onward, steering was revised for improved feel and the wheels were updated to a new five-spoke design.
Z06
The Z06 arrived as a 2006 model in the third quarter of 2005. It had a new 7.0 LLitér
- External links :*...
(7,008 cc/427.6 cu in) version of the Small-Block engine codenamed LS7, which produced 505 hp (376 kW). In addition to the larger engine, the Corvette Z06 has a dry sump
Dry sump
A dry sump is a lubricating motor oil management method for four-stroke and large two-stroke piston internal combustion engines that uses external pumps and a secondary external reservoir for oil, as compared to a conventional wet sump system....
oiling system, and connecting rod
Connecting rod
In a reciprocating piston engine, the connecting rod or conrod connects the piston to the crank or crankshaft. Together with the crank, they form a simple mechanism that converts linear motion into rotating motion....
s made out of titanium
Titanium
Titanium is a chemical element with the symbol Ti and atomic number 22. It has a low density and is a strong, lustrous, corrosion-resistant transition metal with a silver color....
alloy. The frame of the Z06 is constructed from aluminum, saving 136 pounds over the standard steel frame. Other weight saving measures such as balsa wood/carbon fiber composite floors and a magnesium alloy engine cradle were used.
For 2011 the Z06 carbon edition was introduced, which carries over multiple parts from the ZR1 including carbon ceramic brakes, active suspension, and other carbon fiber aerodynamic pieces. Most of these options can be ordered through the Z07 package on the Z06 except for the carbon edition specific hood. Only 500 Z06 Carbon Editions will be made. The Z06 officially weighed 3180 lb (1421 kg), giving it a weight to power ratio of 6.3 lb
Pound (mass)
The pound or pound-mass is a unit of mass used in the Imperial, United States customary and other systems of measurement...
/hp (3.8 kg
Kilogram
The kilogram or kilogramme , also known as the kilo, is the base unit of mass in the International System of Units and is defined as being equal to the mass of the International Prototype Kilogram , which is almost exactly equal to the mass of one liter of water...
/kW), allowing it to achieve a fuel economy of 15 miles per US gallon in the city and 24 miles per US gallon on the highway
Highway
A highway is any public road. In American English, the term is common and almost always designates major roads. In British English, the term designates any road open to the public. Any interconnected set of highways can be variously referred to as a "highway system", a "highway network", or a...
. The Z06 was the official pace car for both the 2006 Daytona 500
Daytona 500
The Daytona 500 is a -long NASCAR Sprint Cup Series race held annually at the Daytona International Speedway in Daytona Beach, Florida. It is one of four restrictor plate races on the Cup schedule....
and the Indianapolis 500
Indianapolis 500
The Indianapolis 500-Mile Race, also known as the Indianapolis 500, the 500 Miles at Indianapolis, the Indy 500 or The 500, is an American automobile race, held annually, typically on the last weekend in May at the Indianapolis Motor Speedway in Speedway, Indiana...
race. Car and Driver
Car and Driver
Car and Driver is an American automotive enthusiast magazine. Its total circulation is 1.31 million. It is owned by Hearst Magazines, who purchased prior owner Hachette Filipacchi Media U.S. in 2011...
recorded a 0-60 mph time of 3.6 seconds and 1/4 mile in 11.8 seconds at 122 mph in a March 2007.
ZR1
The ZR1 is a Corvette variant that was first reported by several print and online publications, based on rumors that General Motors was developing a production version of the Corvette above the Z06 level under the internal code name Blue Devil (named after CEO Rick WagonerRick Wagoner
George Richard "Rick" Wagoner, Jr. is an American businessman and former Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of General Motors. Wagoner resigned as Chairman and CEO at General Motors on March 29, 2009, at the request of the White House...
's alma mater, Duke University
Duke University
Duke University is a private research university located in Durham, North Carolina, United States. Founded by Methodists and Quakers in the present day town of Trinity in 1838, the school moved to Durham in 1892. In 1924, tobacco industrialist James B...
). The car was originally rumored to feature a supercharged
Supercharger
A supercharger is an air compressor used for forced induction of an internal combustion engine.The greater mass flow-rate provides more oxygen to support combustion than would be available in a naturally aspirated engine, which allows more fuel to be burned and more work to be done per cycle,...
LS7
GM LS engine
The GM LS engine family is an engine design intended as the only V-8 engine used in General Motors' line of rear-wheel-drive cars and trucks. The LS series was a "clean sheet" design with little in common with the classic Chevrolet small block V8...
engine producing more than 650 hp with prices reported to exceed $124,000.99 USD.
The October 12, 2006 issue of AutoWeek
AutoWeek
AutoWeek is a fortnightly automotive enthusiast publication based in Detroit, Michigan. One of 32 titles published by Crain Communications Inc, its parent company, AutoWeek is unique as the only consumer title among its sister publications....
published photos by photographer Chris Doane of a C6 with special auto-manufacturer-issued license plates on a Z06 with a hood bulge, widely thought to confirm the presence of a supercharger on the Blue Devil. Other names attached to the project included Corvette SS and Corvette Z07. In February 2007, a worker at a Michigan shipping company posted pictures online of a powertrain development mule
Development mule
A development mule or a test mule in the automotive industry is a vehicle equipped with experimental or prototype components for testing. Automakers evaluate aspects of vehicles before a full pre-production car is built to find problems. Mule cars are drivable, often years ahead of actual production...
that was being shipped to Germany, believed to be part of the Blue Devil program. The car had manufacturer's license plates, carbon-ceramic brakes, enlarged fender vents, a hood bulge, and an engine with a positive-displacement supercharger in the valley between the cylinder banks and a water-to-air intercooler atop it.
GM began to release details on the Blue Devil project in April 2007, and revealed the ZR1 in December. The company confirmed the existence of the project in an interview with Car and Driver on April 13. Power levels were confirmed to be between 600 hp, but contrary to prior rumors of a supercharged 6.2 liter engine, the engine was only confirmed to have greater displacement than the 7.0 liter LS7 in the Z06. Motor Trend confirmed the official name for the production Blue Devil, resurrecting the old ZR1 nameplate. The ZR1 had originally been used on developmental cars in 1971, and again as ZR-1 as the top performance model on the C4 Corvette
Chevrolet Corvette C4
The Chevrolet Corvette is a sports car produced by the Chevrolet division of General Motors for the 1984 through 1996 model years. The editors of Consumer Guide stated: "The first fully redesigned Corvette in 15 years was more sophisticated and more practical than the beloved Shark...
. General Motors officially revealed the 2009 Corvette ZR1 on December 19, giving a press release and photographs of the car. GM confirmed a supercharged 6.2 L LS9 V8 producing 638 hp. Performance figures were not released, but GM acknowledged that the car was capable of 205 mi/h, making it the fastest production Corvette ever.
Carbon fiber
Carbon fiber, alternatively graphite fiber, carbon graphite or CF, is a material consisting of fibers about 5–10 μm in diameter and composed mostly of carbon atoms. The carbon atoms are bonded together in crystals that are more or less aligned parallel to the long axis of the fiber...
is used on the roof, hood, fenders, front splitter, and rocker moldings; the hood and fenders are painted over, while the roof and splitter are merely covered in a clear-coat, retaining their black color. A polycarbonate
Polycarbonate
PolycarbonatePhysical PropertiesDensity 1.20–1.22 g/cm3Abbe number 34.0Refractive index 1.584–1.586FlammabilityV0-V2Limiting oxygen index25–27%Water absorption – Equilibrium0.16–0.35%Water absorption – over 24 hours0.1%...
window is placed in the center of the hood, allowing the engine intercooler to be seen from the exterior. The wheels are the largest ever placed on a production Corvette, with both front and rear wheels increasing in size and diameter over the Corvette Z06. Carbon-ceramic brakes are included. The brake calipers are painted blue, as are the engine intercooler trim and the ZR1 logo. Magnetic Selective Ride Control is also included on the car, with sensors to automatically adjust stiffness levels based on road conditions and vehicle movement.
All-new LS9 supercharged 6.2L V-8 targeted at producing at least 100 horsepower per liter, or 620 horsepower (462 kW), and approximately 595 lb.-ft. of torque (823 Nm) The supercharged 6.2-liter V8 in the Chevy Corvette ZR1 produces 638 horsepower, 604 ft-lb torque. Top speed 205 mph.
Six-speed, close-ratio, race-hardened manual transmission.
New, high-capacity dual-disc clutch.
Higher-capacity and specific-diameter axle half-shafts; enhanced torque tube.
Specific suspension tuning provides more than 1g cornering grip.
Twenty-spoke 19-inch front and 20-inch rear wheels.
Michelin Pilot Sport 2 tires – P285/30ZR19 in front and P335/25ZR20 in the rear – developed specifically for the ZR1.
Standard carbon-ceramic, drilled disc brake rotors – 15.5-inch-diameter (394-mm) in the front and 15-inch-diameter (380-mm) in the rear.
Larger brake calipers with substantially increased pad area.
Standard Magnetic Selective Ride Control with track-level suspension.
Wider, carbon-fiber front fenders with ZR1-specific dual vents.
Carbon-fiber hood with a raised, polycarbonate window – offering a view of the intercooler below it.
Carbon-fiber roof panel, roof bow, front fascia splitter and rocker moldings with clear-coated, exposed carbon-fiber weave.
ZR1-specific full-width rear spoiler with raised outboard sections.
Specific gauge cluster with boost gauge (also displayed on the head-up display) and 220-mph (370 km/h) speedometer readout.
Only two options: chrome wheels and a “luxury” package.
Curb weight of approximately 3,350 pounds (1,519 kg)
Grand Sport
The 2010 Grand Sport was unveiled at the 12th annunal C5/C6 Corvette Birthday Bash, held at the National Corvette MuseumNational Corvette Museum
The National Corvette Museum showcases the Chevrolet Corvette, an American sports car that has been in production since 1953. It is located in Bowling Green, Kentucky, off Interstate 65's Exit 28...
. The Grand Sport equipment package replaced the previous Z51 package and includes the following:
- Wider front and rear fenders – including specific front fenders with integrated Grand Sport badges
- Z06 front splitter and rear spoiler
- Functional brake ducts and extra cooling
- Unique 18-inch front and 19-inch wheels; painted finish standard and chrome finish optional
- Large 275/35ZR18 tires in front and 325/30ZR19 tires in the rear
- Z06 brakes, including 355 mm (14 in) front rotors with 6-piston calipers and 340 mm (13.4 in) rear rotors with 4-piston calipers
- Dry-sump oil system (Coupes equipped with manual transmissions only)
- Specific manual transmission gear ratios
- Specific rear axle ratio on automatic-equipped models
The Grand Sport can be ordered with 1LT, 2LT, 3LT and 4LT trim packages.
Other features include the Z06 brake package featuring 14 in (356 mm) front and 13.4 in (340 mm) brakes with 6/4-piston front/rear calipers. Manual models also include a dry sump system from the Z06 and ZR1, and launch control. The upgrade costs $6,000US.
Engines
| Type | Years |
|---|---|
| LS2 | 2005MY-2007MY |
| LS7 | 2006MY- |
| LS3 | 2008MY- |
| LS9 | 2009– |
LS2 was replaced by LS3 in 2008MY vehicles.
LS3 engine in the GS convertible is wet sump instead of dry sump.
ZHZ (2008)
500 examples of the ZHZ - mechanically a C6 coupé with the LS3 engine, 6-speed automatic transmission and vacuum actuated valve exhaust - were produced for The Hertz CorporationThe Hertz Corporation
Hertz Global Holdings Inc is an American car rental company with international locations in 145 countries worldwide.-Early years:The company was founded by Walter L. Jacobs in 1918, who started a car rental operation in Chicago with a dozen Model T Ford cars. In 1923, Jacobs sold it to John D...
's Fun Collection for 2008 in targa versions. 350 convertibles were produced for Hertz in 2009. All cars were finished in yellow with a broad black stripe along the hood and roof.
GT1 Championship Edition (2009)
The GT1 Championship Edition is an option package for the C6 that was unveiled in the 2009 New York Auto Show. It celebrates the Corvette C6.R's entry into the GT1 class of ALMS in 2009. Its Based on Corvette Coupe 4LT, Convertible 4LT or Z06, it comes with same yellow body hue that adorns the C6.R or "41U" black, along with a "Jake" graphic that spans the Championship edition's hood. Chrome wheels and a body-colored spoiler pulled from the ZR1 join a "carbon pattern" engine cover, while inside a leather-wrapped ebony interior contains "GT1" embroidered on the seats, an instrument panel and a center console armrest. Non-Z06 models also include a Z51 Performance Package and NPP Performance exhaust.100 units of each model (600 total) were built, each carrying a $7,840 premium over standard models.
Z06 Carbon Special Edition (2010–)
In March 2010, Chevrolet announced that 500 Z06 Carbon Special Editions will be made available beginning in Summer 2010. The car will be available in two colors: Inferno Orange and an all-new Supersonic Blue. On the exterior, the car will get black headlamps and mirrors, a ZR1-style spoiler, carbon fiber hood, and black carbon fiber rockers and splitter. Inside, the Z06 Carbon has ebony leather and suede seats with body color-matching stitching. Other improvements include Magnetic Selective Ride Control, a special carbon engine cover, 20-spoke black 19-inch front/20-inch rear wheels, and ZR1’s carbon ceramic Brembo brakes.| Year | Production | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| 2005 | 37,372 | New C6 body is first with fixed headlights since 1962; no Z06 model and a late convertible introduction |
| 2006 | 34,021 | Z06 debuts; 6-speed automatic with paddle shift available on non-Z06 models |
| 2007 | 40,561 | 6-speed automatic paddle shift delays are reduced drastically compared to 2006 |
| 2008 | 35,310 | LS3 introduced, Tremec T6060 transmission, new steering system, NPP exhaust, improved interior on all models, All leather interior added (4LT, 3LZ) |
| 2009 | 16,956 | ZR1 model added, new "Spyder" wheels for Z06 |
| 2010 | 12,194 | Grand Sport Coupe and Convertible added; replaces the Z51 performance package, launch control standard on MN6 models |
| 2011 | Standard 5-spoke wheels on base model coupe and convertible |
Z06X
The Z06X was designed to be a factory built road race car similar to cars like the Porsche 911 GT3 Cup and Dodge Viper ACR-X. The concept car was built by GMGeneral Motors
General Motors Company , commonly known as GM, formerly incorporated as General Motors Corporation, is an American multinational automotive corporation headquartered in Detroit, Michigan and the world's second-largest automaker in 2010...
with the help of Pratt & Miller Engineering
Pratt & Miller
Pratt & Miller Engineering and Fabrication is a company formed by Gary Pratt and Jim Miller in 1989.Based out of New Hudson, Michigan, they have been one of General Motors official racing teams since 1999 when they were key in the development of the Chevrolet Corvette C5-R...
. The Z06X features racecar components such as: carbon fiber adjustable rear wing, carbon fiber front splitter, full roll cage, fire suppression system, race seat, harness, carbon ceramic brakes, upgraded cooling system, polycarbonate rear window, adjustable coilovers, adjustable sway bars, tow hooks and radio, interior carpeting and sound-deadining materials have been removed. The suspension system was designed and supplied by Pfadt Race Engineering.
Z03
The Z03 is a concept model based on Z06, built by Min Mors Design. It includes extensive use of carbon fiber, and a choice of 3 engines that range from 500 bhp; the most powerful choice utilizes a Tial/Garret turbocharger with liquid cooled ceramic bearings. The company planned to produce 450 Z03sZ06.D
The Z06.D was a concept that was based on the 6.6 liter Duramax turbo diesel normally found in light-duty and medium duty Chervrolet and GMC trucks. The engine used was a revised version of the Duramax, but utilizing a cast aluminum block and redesigned cylinder heads. It also had redesigned exhaust manifolds and a ceramic turbo. The pistons and connecting rods were made of an aluminum alloy, which made them more durable than the normal production duramax. The engine's power output was rated at 410 hp (306 kW) and 495 lb·ft (671 N·m). The design proved to be too radical though and never went into mass prduction. Due to the heavy weight of the engine and the extra heat insulation for the cabin impart to the engines heat, the Z06.D had a curb weight of 3,610lbs making the steering attributes unprecise and handling quirkey and less responsive. Only two Z06.D prototypes were produced. One is located at the Bowling Green Assembly Plant's front entrance and the other is in The National Corvette Museum in Bowling Green, Kentucky.C6.R
Pratt & Miller
Pratt & Miller Engineering and Fabrication is a company formed by Gary Pratt and Jim Miller in 1989.Based out of New Hudson, Michigan, they have been one of General Motors official racing teams since 1999 when they were key in the development of the Chevrolet Corvette C5-R...
, and unveiled for its first competition at the 2005 12 Hours of Sebring
2005 12 Hours of Sebring
The 2005 12 Hours of Sebring was the 53rd running of this event, and took place on March 19, 2005. The race was sponsored by Mobil 1 and was the opening race of the 2005 American Le Mans Series season run by IMSA.-Official results:...
endurance race of the American Le Mans Series
American Le Mans Series
The American Le Mans Series presented by Tequila Patrón is a sports car racing series based in the United States and Canada. It consists of a series of endurance and sprint races, and was created in the spirit of the 24 Hours of Le Mans. Teams compete in one of five classes: LMP1, LMP2 and LMPC...
. It came in second and third in its class, just behind the new Aston Martin DBR9
Aston Martin DBR9
The Aston Martin DBR9 is a racing car built by Aston Martin Racing, debuting in 2005. The name DBR9 is derived from the original 24 Hours of Le Mans-winning DBR1 car, named for then-owner David Brown, which not only won the 24 Hour race in 1959 but also the World Sportscar title.-Development:Based...
race car. It was put on display a week later at the New York International Auto Show
New York International Auto Show
The New York International Auto Show is an annual auto show held in New York City in late March or early April. It is usually held at the Jacob Javits Convention Center. It usually opens on or just before Easter weekend and closes on the first Sunday after Easter...
next to the Z06.
In 2006, the Corvette C6.R won both American Le Mans GT1 Championships: Teams and Manufacturers. On March 17, 2007 it won the GT1 class in the 12 Hours of Sebring
2007 12 Hours of Sebring
The 2007 Mobil 1 12 Hours of Sebring was the 55th running of this event and the opening round of the 2007 American Le Mans Series season. It took place on March 17, 2007.-Official results:Class winners are in bold...
.
For Le Mans 2007, four C6.R's were on the entry list, the two Corvette Racing entries joined by single entries from the Luc Alphand Aventures and PSI-Motorsport teams.
The heart of the C6.R, its LS7.R motor, was crowned as Global Motorsport Engine of the Year by a jury of 50 race engine engineers on the Professional Motorsport World Expo 2006 in Cologne, Germany.
For 2011, the aerodynamics of the ALMS cars were modified to be similar to the ZR1
Chevrolet Corvette C6 ZR1
The Chevrolet Corvette C6 ZR1 is a high performance version of the Chevrolet Corvette C6. Both the C3 from 1969–1971 and C4 Corvettes from 1990-1995 had ZR-1 models...
. This car has since won the 2011 24 Hours of Le Mans
2011 24 Hours of Le Mans
The 2011 24 Hours of Le Mans was the 79th Grand Prix of Endurance, and took place on 11–12 June 2011 at the Circuit de la Sarthe, Le Mans, France, and organised by the Automobile Club de l'Ouest...
in the GTE-Pro and GTE-Am classes.
In addition to the American Le Mans Series
American Le Mans Series
The American Le Mans Series presented by Tequila Patrón is a sports car racing series based in the United States and Canada. It consists of a series of endurance and sprint races, and was created in the spirit of the 24 Hours of Le Mans. Teams compete in one of five classes: LMP1, LMP2 and LMPC...
, Corvette C6.Rs also race in the FIA GT1 World Championship
FIA GT1 World Championship
The FIA GT1 World Championship is a world championship sports car racing series developed by the SRO Group and regulated by the Fédération Internationale de l'Automobile . It features multiple grand tourer race cars based on production road cars and conforming with the GT1 regulations competing in...
. The GT1 cars are given more power and have less aerodynamics restrictions than the Le Mans cars, which follow GT2 regulations.
Z06-R
Entered in the FIA GT3 European ChampionshipFIA GT3 European Championship
The FIA GT3 European Championship is a sports car racing series organized by the Stéphane Ratel Organisation and regulated by the Fédération Internationale de l'Automobile . It is a championship derived from the international FIA GT1 World Championship, but meant to provide competition for more...
series as a GT3 class car, the Z06-R is a modified production Z06. Changes were necessary to make the car endurance race ready. These include a stripped interior, full rollcage for safety, center-locking wheels, carbon fiber doors, rear deck spoiler and front splitter. The engine and drivetrain are stock but the former is mapped for 97 octane race fuel. The result is a 7200 rpm redline, 200 higher than stock and 40 extra horsepower. The car is not road legal.
Eight Z06-R were constructed by Callaway Competition GmbH in Leingarten
Leingarten
Leingarten is a municipality in the district of Heilbronn, Baden-Württemberg, Germany. It is situated 7 km west of Heilbronn. It was formed 1 January 1970, when the municipalities of Großgartach and Schluchtern merged.-Location:...
, Germany, for the 2006 season. The French team Riverside campaigned a three car team. In an effort to achieve parity among the disparate participants of the GT3 Series, three forms of handicapping were applied by the FIA regulators: additional vehicle weight, ride height, and tire compound selection. The Corvettes were raced with all three handicaps employed. The Z06R won the FIA GT3 European Championship in its second year of entry. By 2011, all Z06-R teams discontinued their racing efforts in GT3, ending the car's FIA career. Z06-Rs are also campaigned in national championships.