GM has not disclosed specific performance numbers,
but the company admits a top speed of 200 mph is very likely. In
terms of acceleration, the ZR1 most definitely beats its Z06
counterpart, thanks to a 115-horsepower output advantage. Since the
Z06 rockets to 60 mph in just 3.6 seconds, it's a safe bet the ZR1
will be much closer to the 3.0 mark.
"It all boils down to the power-to-weight ratio and
the ZR1’s is exceptional," said Chevy's Ed Peper. "Better than the
Porsche 911 GT2, the Ferrari 599 and even the Lamborghini LP640. In
fact, the ZR1 is expected to be the first production Corvette to
achieve a top speed of at least 200 mph."
GM used the
Z06 chassis as a starting point, but
further tuned the front and rear independent suspension to work
with the ZR1's ultra-wide tires for increased grip. According to
GM, the car achieves 1g cornering grip.
Exotic looks, exotic materials
The use of carbon fiber is pretty extensive
throughout the ZR1. The wider fenders are made of the material, as
are the hood, roof panel, roof bow, front fascia splitter and rocker
moldings.
The roof and front fascia splitter have a raw carbon
fiber appearance with a protective clear coat. The hood is painted
like the rest of the car, but the underside is exposed carbon-fiber-weave
for increased novelty.
Another standout feature of the hood is a clear
polycarbonate "window" that provides a view of the top of the
engine’s intercooler, with embossed "LS9 Supercharged" lettering.
Brakes, tires, and wheels
The ZR1 has the largest wheels ever of any production
Corvette -- not just in diameter, but in width also. The rims
measure 20 inches in rear diameter and 19 inches up front. Rear
width is a whopping 12 inches, while the front wheels are nearly as
massive at 10 inches of width.
In terms of wheel finish, a bright silver paint coat
is standard and a chrome version is optional.
The matching Michelin Pilot Sport 2 tires measure
P285/30ZR19 in front and P335/25ZR20 in the rear. While Michelin's
PS2 tires are offered on many vehicles, these were engineered
specifically for the ZR1, GM says.
The car's braking system features carbon-ceramic
rotors measuring 15.5 inches up front and 15 inches at the rear. GM
says the rotors are so durable they should not requiring replacement
for the life of the vehicle.
Squeezing the dics are six-piston front calipers and
four-piston rear calipers, painted in ZR1-exclusive blue.
Adjustable suspension
The ZR1 comes with GM's Magnetic Selective Ride
Control (MSRC) suspension system. The MSRC shocks are automatically
adjusted based on driving conditions and vehicle dynamics (cornering,
braking, etc) for optimal handling. The system is adjusted every
milisecond to provide sharp handling during spirited driving, and a
smooth ride while cruising.
While the ZR1 is overall a more aggressive sports car
than the Z06, it is actually less harsh over bumps, thanks to the
MSRC technology. “The damping control of MSRC allowed for front and
rear springs that have a slightly lower rate than the Z06, which
enhances the car’s ride quality,” said Tadge Juechter, Corvette
chief engineer.
Optional premium interior features
