Rating Each Generation Chevrolet Corvette ZR1 By Maximum Velocity

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The subsequent details, encompassing specifications, were mainly drawn from GMAuthority.com. Additional details were obtained from various websites such as Chevrolet.com and CorvetteMuseum.org.

4 C3 ZR1 (1970–1972)

Maximum Velocity: 180 MPH (Estimated)

The introduction of the ZR1 emblem dates back to 1970. At that time, aficionados of American sports cars were just beginning to develop an interest in steering cars around corners, deviating from the American tradition of gauging a vehicle’s performance; the linear quarter-mile drag. Consequently, to capitalize on this changing trend, Chevrolet commenced offering a toughened, stripped-down rendition of their C3 Corvette. They labeled it the ZR1, birthing the grade renowned for speed without compromises in mind.

At the core of this fresh variant of Corvette was a 350 cubic-inch Chevrolet Small Block V8. But it wasn’t the traditional small block; this one incorporated some scientific elements.

Initially, it boasted a solid-lifter valvetrain that aided in preserving more precise valve timing at high revolutions. The ZR1 5.7-liter V8, or LT-1 as it was alternatively named, also featured an all-aluminum, high-throughput radiator for enhanced cooling. Paired with the LT-1 was a Muncie M22 robust, close-ratio four-speed manual transmission, a superb selection for competitive racing on compact tracks.

The ZR1 was also furnished with twin-pin front and single-pin rear J56 powerful brakes and a specialized suspension bundle named “F41”. When it comes to amenities, they were nonexistent. This vehicle was designed to be entirely comfortable on a circuit, not in regular traffic. Therefore, it not only lacked A/C, a rear window defroster, or even power steering, but you couldn’t even request any additional features as GM prohibited it. They didn’t want you interfering with their flawless track day automobile.

Concerning production figures, only 53 ZR1s were assembled for the C3 Corvette era, with most of them being manufactured as 1970 models.

3 C4 ZR1 (1990–1995)

Top Velocity: 181 MPH

The subsequent Corvette to sport the ZR1 emblem arrived almost two decades following the initial one. In 1986, General Motors purchased Lotus, the UK-based sports car manufacturer, and Formula One expert. Utilizing Lotus as support, the two companies began outlining the next-gen Corvette ZR1. Subsequently, four years later, the ZR1 made its debut. The brand-new C4 Corvette ZR1 burst onto the scene in 1990 with a slightly different strategy. It was still envisioned as the Corvette’s fastest model but with a more daring concept behind it.

General Motors aimed to establish the quickest production car globally, hence enlisting Lotus’s support as they required assistance. The primary outcome of this project was the inception of the LT5 V8, based on the standard Chevy.

Lotus significantly contributed to the C4 ZR1 with its advancements in braking and steering systems, addressing the areas where GM often struggled in their performance vehicles at that time. Furthermore, Lotus applied their expertise to enhance the air management system of the LT5 V8, enabling the deactivation of eight out of its 16 intake valves during partial throttle operation, resulting in fuel savings while maintaining near-peak power output.

Upon its release, the ZR1 wasted no time in setting new records. On March 1, 1990, the ZR1 was subjected to rigorous tests at a test track in Ford Stockton, Texas, where it broke seven records in a single day, all verified by the FIA:

• 100 miles (160 km) at 175.600 mph (282.601 km/h)
• 500 miles (800 km) at 175.503 mph (282.445 km/h)
• 1,000 miles (1,600 km) at 174.428 mph (280.715 km/h)
• 5,000 km (3,100 mi) at 175.710 mph (282.778 km/h) (World Record)
• 5,000 miles (8,000 km) at 173.791 mph (279.690 km/h) (World Record)
• 12 Hours Endurance at 175.523 mph (282.477 km/h)
• 24 Hours Endurance at 175.885 mph (283.059 km/h) for 4,221.256 miles (6,793.453 km) (World Record)

These records remained unchallenged for almost a decade until Volkswagen’s W12 concept outperformed them. Nevertheless, the ZR1 retained its pride, as the W12 responsible for surpassing these records never made it to production.

2 C6 ZR1 (2009–2013)

Top Speed: 205 MPH

Following the usual ZR1 tradition, the rating vanished post-1995, only to be revived after a span of 14 years. The rebirth occurred with a bang when the C6 ZR1 Corvette was introduced in winter 2008, with GM targeting mid-2009 for the commencement of deliveries. This generation introduced the common misconception that all ZR1 ‘Vettes are supercharged, as it marked the first ZR1 model to employ forced induction.

The C6 ZR1 was furnished with a modified 6.2-liter V8 engine known as the LS9. Attached to its intake manifold was a 2.3-liter supercharger featuring a four-lobed internal rotor to ensure evenly distributed airflow throughout the intake plenum.

The substantial engine was mated to a Tremec six-speed manual transmission and a rear differential with a 3.42 gear ratio. Although GM claims a top speed of 205 MPH, a test on the German Autobahn demonstrated a real-world top speed of 192 MPH. However, the factory’s claim will be acknowledged in this instance.

The majority of the C6 ZR1’s structure is constructed from the standard Corvette fiberglass material. However, GM opted for carbon fiber in certain parts like the fenders, hood, roof, front spoiler, and rocker panels. An interesting feature included in the ZR1 was a transparent panel made from polycarbonate on its hood, offering a glimpse of the massive 2.3-liter supercharger.

1 C7 ZR1 (2019 Only)

Top Speed: 215 MPH

The most recent version of the ZR1 graced us in 2019 attached to a C7-generation Corvette. Judging by its appearance, GM intended to convey a clear message not to underestimate this powerhouse. The C7 ZR1 was teased in 2017, followed by its official debut at the Dubai Auto Show the same year. While primarily based on the Z06 platform, the C7 ZR1 featured several key enhancements, as we’ll outline below.

Alongside the revival of the ZR1 name, GM brought back the LT5 engine code from the C4 ZR1 nearly three decades earlier. This time around, the LT5 code was associated with a formidable powerplant. Thanks to its ample displacement and a 2.6-liter Eaton supercharger, the LT5 churned out over 750 horsepower.

The American sports car boasts an impressive amount of horsepower at a reasonable price point.

Additionally, the ZR1 boasted significant power and featured enhancements in its aerodynamics. The aero design of the ZR1 was a collaborative effort with the Pratt & Miller Corvette Racing Team’s vehicle. It included a front splitter, a larger rear wing compared to the stock version, and a dynamic exhaust system. For those seeking increased downforce, the ZTK aerodynamic package was available, offering an even larger rear wing, a front underbody spoiler, and carbon fiber front splitter end caps. The C7 ZR1 came equipped with a seven-speed Tremec manual transmission as standard. Alternatively, an eight-speed paddle-shifted automatic transmission was also an option, a first for the ZR1.

Sources: CorvetteForum.com