The naturally aspirated V8 engine is the most powerful in a production car.
We were impressed with the C8 Corvette’s performance when it debuted in 2019. We could only imagine what future models would be able to do with a base model Stingray that matches the ZR1’s 60 mph. The new is the next step on the C8’s midengine journey. It’s actually not a step. It’s an incredible leap.
The LT6: No Turbos and No Problem
What else could you use to describe 670 horsepower (550 kilowatts), at – wait for IT – 8,400 RPM? The Chevrolet LT6 V8 is the most powerful naturally-aspirated V8 engine has ever seen. The 5.5-liter DOHC V8 has an all-aluminum body with a flat-plane crankshaft and a redline of 8,600 revs. This is 200 rpm below peak power. The maximum torque rating of 460 lb-ft (623 Newton-meters), has a peak speed of 6,300 rpm. This engine is rev-happy and unlike any other that has graced a Corvette. It can propel the Z06 to 60 mph within 2.6 seconds.
As you can see, more air is required to cool the engine. Chevrolet’s Z06 teaser image doesn’t show any significant visual differences from the Stingray. However, it has a front fascia that channels the air to the center heat exchanger. This is one of five Z06 heat exchangers. The stance is 3.6 inches wider to improve balance and handling. However, the increased width allows for more air to flow through the side vents. The Z06’s floating quad exhaust outlets are housed in a new fascia at the rear. This design is not an afterthought. Engineers spent two years perfecting the pipes to make it sound like no other ‘Vette.
Suspension And Aero Upgrades
Although this new engine will be the talk of the town, it is only one part of the performance equation. Chevrolet engineers were able to fit the Z06 with the biggest wheels ever used in a production Corvette due to the Z06’s wider stance. The 20-inch front wheels are 275/30-series tires. 21-inch wheels in the back roll on steamroller-spec 345/25/25-series rubber. Chevrolet also offers seven different wheel packages if you don’t like the standard “spider” wheels.
Z06-specific calibration is added to the suspension compared to the Stingray. However, drivers will still have a wide range of settings available for hardcore track driving or casual touring. Six-piston Brembos are installed in the front to clamp down on 14.6 inch rotors. Rear brakes are slightly bigger with 15-inch brakes. However, optional carbon-ceramic brakes increase sizes to 15.7 in front and 15.4 in back. The Z06 convertible hardtop is also available.
Aerodynamically speaking, the Z06 standard models come with a front splitter as well as a modest rear spoiler. Chevrolet refers to it as a small tab at spoiler’s edge. Although it can increase downforce, we think people who want downforce will choose the carbon fiber aero package. It makes the Z06 look more like its racecar sibling. It features a bigger front splitter, dive plans on the front corners, underbodystrakes and the large wing that we’ve seen on many camouflaged prototypes.
You can also check the box to get the Z07 Performance Package. This will give you all the upgrades mentioned plus some more. This package includes the FE7 suspension and additional Magnetic Ride Control 4.0 calibrations. The super-sticky Michelin Sport Cup2 R ZP tires are also included. These tires were specifically designed for the Z06. These tires can be mounted on a variety of wheels, including carbon-fiber wheels which reduce 41 pounds of unsprung mass from the Z06.
Chevrolet claims that the newest ‘Vette can pull 1.22 G on a 300-foot skidpad, and produce 734 pounds of downforce at speeds of 186 mph. You’ll also find carbon-fiber trim packages, as well as a new Adrenaline Red interior option, in the cockpit.
Performance and Price
Chevrolet is not very forthcoming with this information at the moment. The Z06’s shifting duties are performed by an eight-speed dual clutch transmission with a shorter final drive. It can accelerate to 60 mph in 2.6 seconds, but we don’t know its top speed. It is possible to reach 200 mph with nearly 700 horsepower.
Production of Z06 will start in 2022, barring any production delays caused by COVID or chip shortages. Prices will be made available closer to the date of on-sale.