The 2023 Chevrolet Corvette Z06 is like no Corvette before it. At least not on the street.
The 2023 Chevrolet Corvette Z06 features a unique 5.5-liter flat-plane crank V8. (Chevrolet)
The new super-high performance model features an engine design borrowed from Chevy’s C8.R endurance racing car.
Built on an updated version of the Corvette Stingray’s mid-engine platform, the Z06 swaps the Stingray’s 495 hp 6.2-liter pushrod V8 for a 5.5-liter overhead cam V8 equipped with a flat-plane crankshaft.
It’s an engine type typically found only in competition cars and exotics like Ferraris and McLarens. The lightweight rotating components and short-stroke configuration allow it to rev to a sky-high 8,600 rpm and produce a naturally aspirated V8-record 670 horsepower, 480 lb-ft of torque and a screeching exhaust note.
The last mass-produced American car to use one was the most recent Ford Mustang Shelby GT350, which has a 5.2-liter V8 rated at 526 hp.
The Z06 will be available as either a coupe or convertible and with or without the Z07 Performance Package. (Chevrolet)
The track-focused Z06 gets plenty of chassis upgrades to go with the engine, including a 3.6-inch wider body flared around 345-series rear tires. Larger Brembo brakes than the Stingray’s are accommodated by 21-inch rear and 20-inch front rims, which can be upgraded to lighter carbon fiber construction.
The Z07 Performance Package adds an aggressive rear wing. (Chevrolet)
The Z06 also has a retuned Magnetic Ride Control suspension, uniquely designed front and side air intakes to feed its five heat exchangers and an 8-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission with a new final drive ratio geared with acceleration in mind.
The standard body includes a rear spoiler with an attachable wickerbill that generates 365 pounds of downforce at 186 mph, while an optional Z07 Performance Package adds a jutting front splitter, underbody aerodynamic elements, a giant rear wing, an even more aggressive suspension tune, Michelin Cup 2 R ZP tires, carbon ceramic brake discs and gets the Z06 to 60 mph in 2.6 seconds.
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Full performance specs and pricing for the Z06 have not been released, but if the premium over the Stingray is similar to the last Z06 it could start under $90,000 when deliveries in both coupe and convertible styles begin next summer.
Source: www.foxnews.com