2009 Chevrolet Corvette ZR-1. Click image to enlarge |
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2009 Chevrolet Corvette ZR-1
Detroit, Michigan - General Motors will officially unveil the 2009 Corvette ZR1, carrying the company's new supercharged LS9 V8 engine, at the North American International Auto Show in Detroit.
"Chevrolet's goal with the new ZR1 is to show what an American supercar can deliver, at a price that trumps exotics that cost two, three or four times as much, and does so with exceptional drivability," said Ed Peper, Chevrolet general manager.
The ZR1 will feature an all-new supercharged 6.2-litre V8 producing 620 horsepower and 595 lb-ft of torque; a close-ratio six-speed manual transmission; specific suspension tuning providing more than 1g cornering grip; 19- and 20-inch twenty-spoke wheels with Michelin Pilot Sport 2 tires developed specifically for the ZR1; standard Magnetic Selective Ride Control with track-level suspension; carbon-fibre hood, front fenders, roof panel and other body components; and standard carbon-ceramic, drilled-disc brake rotors.
The new Corvette will weigh approximately 1,519 kg (3,350 lbs) and will have only two available options, of chrome wheels and a "luxury" package. The new ZR1 will be launched in the summer of 2008.
"Preliminary testing shows the ZR1 builds on the highly-respected Corvette Z06 in every performance category, from acceleration and braking, to cornering grip and top speed," Peper said. "It all boils down to the power-to-weight ratio, and the ZR1's is exceptional - 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 (321.8 km/h)."
