Get ready for strong emotions: Chevrolet unveiled the new Corvette ZR1 2019, the fastest and most powerful car ever produced by the brand. And that is no small thing. The new ZR1 outperforms the Z06 by delivering no less than 765 horsepower and 98.9 kgfm of torque. With all the cavalry at disposal, the Super sport can surpass the 338 km / h (210 mph) In addition to the aerodynamic package and changes in bodywork, the big star of the set is the supercharged 6.2-litre V8 engine.
The basis of this engine was already present in Z06, but it received improvements to deliver the highest possible yield. According to Chevrolet, this was possible thanks to the supercharged intercooler optimization in conjunction with the adoption of a dual injection system, which combines direct injection with a supplementary multipoint injection system.
To accompany this engine, the sports car will be offered with a seven-speed manual gearbox or with an eight-speed automatic, available for the first time for the car. In this case, manual exchanges can be performed by butterflies behind the wheel and use best car cover for car safety.
To cope with this engine, the aggressive front of the ZR1 has gained four new radiators, which together with other elements of heat exchange add up to 13. In addition to an efficient engine associated with a precise gearbox, to reach 338 km / h, the car has an aerodynamic package, starting with the adjustable rear wing able to apply about 413 kg of downforce. But the element is optional. Inside the cabin, leather sports seats welcome the driver.
It can receive heating and ventilation system, internal elements in carbon fibre and Bose premium sound system. There is not a fan of cars that do not know the Chevrolet Corvette, which was born in 1953 as a quiet convertible inspired by European sports. Named Stingray, the second generation came in 1963 to consolidate the high-performing reputation and establish the technical and style concepts maintained to this day.
His story begins with the 1957 Corvette SS, developed by engineer Zora Arkus-Duntov for competitions and aborted after GM closed its official participation on the tracks. Under the control of engineer Ed Cole, Chevrolet developed the XP-720 coupe, blending elements of Mitchell's Stingray Racer style with the 1957 Q-Corvette project. Cole mediated the antagonistic ideas of Danto and Mitchell: the engineer wanted a Corvette with the central engine, while the designer insisted on the harmonious style of the front engine.
Mitchell's concept prevailed, but Danto played a key role in the development of the new, stronger, harder, 10-centimeter-less chassis. The independent rear suspension is also credited to Danto, a breakthrough that soon put the Corvette ahead of sportsmen like Ferrari, Aston Martin and Maserati. Crafted in the wind tunnel of the California Institute of Technology, the fiberglass body was also offered in the convertible version.
Smaller and lighter than its predecessor, the Stingray took better advantage of the performance of the 5.4-liter V8, which came in at 360 bhp with mechanical Rochester fuel injection. In short, the Corvette was a legitimate sport: more than 80% of the Stingray had a four-speed manual gearbox. Other options were electronic ignition, power-assisted brakes, power steering, air conditioning, leather seats, radio, center-fixed aluminum wheels and high-performance racing packages.
Inspired by the majestic Bugatti Type 57SC Atlantic, the bipartite rear window was a personal touch of Mitchell that provoked Duntov's ire and the displeasure of the specialized press. But the public approved: 21,513 Stingray was sold in 1963, almost 50% more than the previous year. Danto’s misalignment paid off: the 1964 model finally received the entire rear window.
Even with several options, the Stingray cost far less than European rivals capable of breaking the 200 km / h barrier and accelerating from 0 to 100 km / h in less than 8 seconds. The suspension was recalibrated with new springs and shock absorbers.
Cautious, the 1965 model brought the 6.5-litre V8, identified by the highlighted hood. Its 425 hp yielded a 0 to 100 km / h in about 5 seconds, performance contained by Delco disc brakes on all four wheels. It was a generous addition of torque and power for a lower value than the 5.8-litre V8 with Rochester injection. To cope with the Shelby Cobra 427, the V8 big block had the displacement increased to 7 litres in 1966.
It was one of the fastest cars in the world and the American technically more refined and fast, with a maximum around 225 km / h. It was Stingray's most successful year: 27,720 units. In 1967, the Stingray added 117,964 cars, more than expected by GM and with an invaluable return to Chevrolet's image worldwide.
The Stingray 1963 of these photos, to the care of De Gennaro Motors, is one of the most valued due to the controversial rear split glass. Public and critical success is the portrait of a romantic time in the industry in which the best professionals have not gone to great lengths to create a car that was born classic and whose spirit is still present today in the Corvette.
For when every millisecond counts
The difference between checkered flag and second place is measured in milliseconds, and the Z06 is designed to help you take the lead. Its supercharged 6.2L V8 engine has a capacity of 650 horsepower. It can accelerate up to 60 mph in less than seconds. † With a dry crankcase oil system, direct injection and continuous variable valve timing, this supercharged machine is designed for extreme speed and acceleration.
Made with the same carbon fibre
The Z06 and the C7.R racing car were developed together and share many features and components. Taking the Stingray as a base, the Z06 and the C7.R were designed to dominate the races. Its fluid lines and integrated aerodynamics allow you to achieve incredible performance through a striking appearance. And since we designed the Z06 taking into account a convertible option, the performance is maintained when the canopy is low.
Its fluid lines and integrated aerodynamics allow you to achieve incredible performance through a striking appearance. And since we designed the Z06 taking into account a convertible option, the performance is maintained when the canopy is low.
This legendary sports car has a driver-centered cockpit with a fluid design with premium materials. Intuitive instruments to keep you focused on the road, available front seats with heating and ventilation, and Dual-zone climate control for a more comfortable and refined driving experience.
Nicki Jenns