2019 Chevrolet Corvette ZR1: The Beast is Back
Amidst rumours—once again—that a new-generation, mid-engine Corvette will imminently be revealed, Chevrolet has just announced the return of the beastly ZR1.
Unsurprisingly, it will be the most powerful production Corvette in history. The ZR1 will be equipped with a supercharged, 6.2-litre V8—code name LT5—that develops 755 horsepower and 715 pound-feet of torque. Sending this cavalry to the rear wheels will be a seven-speed manual gearbox with rev matching, or an eight-speed automatic with wheel-mounted paddle shifters.
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The 2019 Chevrolet Corvette ZR1 will also feature magnetorheological shocks, electric variable-assist steering as well as 394-mm discs with six-piston callipers up front, 388-mm discs with four-piston pinchers at the rear. Tires will be sized P285/30ZR19 up front and P335/25ZR20 in back.
The ZTK Performance Package will include a High Wing that is said to increase downforce by an additional 950 pounds (431 kilograms). With this wing, the car won’t be able to attain its estimated top speed of 336 km/h (210 mph), but will allow recording quicker lap times around a track. The package also includes a front bumper air splitter with carbon fibre end caps, Michelin Pilot Sport Cup 2 summer tires as well as specific chassis and suspension tuning.
The cockpit will boast leather and faux-suede seat upholstery. The options list will include heated and vented seats covered in Nappa leather, a carbon fibre-trimmed steering wheel, competition sport seats, a performance data recorder and a Bose sound system.
The car will also be available with a Sebring Orange Design Package. It will feature Sebring Orange Tintcoat paint, orange brake callipers, orange rocker panel and splitter striping, orange seat belts, orange contrast stitching and bronze aluminum interior trim.
The 2019 Chevrolet Corvette ZR1 will be on sale in the spring of 2018. Pricing has not yet been announced, but we’re expecting a base MSRP of about $130,000.