Chevrolet has confirmed that its upcoming Corvette C7 Z06 will feature a supercharged V8 producing 650bhp and 650lb ft.
The Corvette Z06, which made its debut at the Detroit motor show earlier this year, is powered by a 6.2-litre 'LT4' V8 engine.
The Z06 is consequently the most powerful production car ever made by General Motors. Previously, it was thought the Z06 would produce in the region of 625bhp.
An upgraded version of the standard C7 Corvette, the Z06 moniker first appeared on the C2 generation of the car in 1963. It was followed, decades later, by the C5 Z06 and C6 Z06.
This generation of Z06, however, is the first with a removable roof, optional eight-speed automatic transmission and - more notably - a supercharged V8 engine. Chevrolet says the massive torque coming from the engine is 28 per cent more than that offered by the V12-powered Ferrari F12 Berlinetta.
The company says that, at idle, the engine is still producing 625lb ft of torque, and is able to maintain up to 90 per cent of available torque between 2500-5400rpm. The engine utilises direct injection and variable valve timing.
In line with its high-performance nature, the LT4 in the Z06 benefits from a dry sump oiling system, ensuring the correct oil pressure is maintained in strenuous conditions.
Other notable design features of the engine include a 10:1 compression ratio, titanium intake valves, forged aluminium pistons and machined connecting rods.
Thanks to the use of a compact 1.7-litre Eaton supercharger, which spins at up to 20,000rpm, the LT4 is only 25mm taller than the standard LT1 engine. This helps keep the Corvette's centre of gravity low, improving its handling characteristics.
Chevrolet is yet to announce any official performance statistics for the C7 Z06, but it's likely that it'll perform in a similar fashion to the 638bhp ZR1, which accelerates from 0-60mph in 3.4sec and can reach a top speed of 205mph.
No official fuel consumption figures have been released either, but the use of cylinder deactivation should help the Z06 return acceptable figures. The standard naturally aspirated C7 is currently claimed to average 28mpg, while the outgoing supercharged ZR1 returns 19.2mpg.
In classic Corvette style, the Z06 retains the C7's standard transverse-mounted composite springs, while magnetorheological electrically adjustable dampers serve to reputedly improve both handling and ride quality. Double-wishbone suspension is used all round, with cast aluminium control arms helping reduce weight.
A 'Driver Mode Selector' offers customisable stability control, launch control, variable traction control and adjustments to the way the electronically controlled limited-slip differential locks up.
Join the debate
Add your comment
7/10ths of a second quicker than PDK ...
This might sound complex or unrealistic, but in practice and on data acquisition software, you can watch the vehicle experience the increase in longitudinal G force.
In any case, I have the 991 GT3 with PDK (once Porsche puts a non-flammable engine in it) and I have an order for the Z06 ... with a third pedal. Porsche has lost the plot and I can only hope someone comes to their senses for the next RS. A PDK-only RS will be "game over" for Porsche.
The most fun current model, type 991, 911 to drive today is the bog standard, base model C2 with manual box and no frills -- lightest, ample power in base engine, though it lacks the character of the S engine, and least horrible steering feel. Here's hoping the GT3 steering carries into the normal Carrera line-up in the 991.2 ...
TOO MUCH IS JUST ENOUGH.