2005 - 2013 Chevrolet Corvette "Bennett ZX-1" by Bennet Coachworks

TopSpeed

By Aravind

Published Dec 14, 2012

With the launch of the C7 Chevrolet Corvette inching closer, the current-gen Corvette is about to become obsolete -- in a way -- for most enthusiasts. This is all thanks to new upgrades to almost every aspect of the Corvette, making it a potential game changer in its segment.

However, the C6’s upcoming elimination didn’t stop Wisconsin-based Bennett Coachworks from giving the outgoing generation a full overhaul. This overhaul is called the Bennett ZX-1, and if there is one word that we can use to describe this build, it’s "insane.” Even the 638-horsepower 'Vette ZR1 stares in awe when the ZX-1 zips past.

The Corvette donor car is fitted with custom body panels that include new carbon-fiber bumpers, doors, fenders, quarter panels, hood and ground effects. Bennett also deleted of the "tear drop" window and installed its own custom setup. This custom build looks like some mad-scientist mash-up between a Chevrolet C6 Corvette and a Lamborghini Reventon.

Bennett also offers comprehensive interior updates with special leather, Alcantara headliner and pillars, as well as upgraded seats from Sparco, Corbeau or Recaro. However, if the owner so wishes, the C6’s interior can remain stock.

The real fun happens under the C6’s hood, as Bennett upgraded it to stratospheric levels. The latest build is powered by a 6.0-liter LS2 V-8 which now cranks out 860 horsepower and 740 pound-feet of torque. That’s a 460-horse bump from the stock engine. This bump is thanks to an Eaton or Magnuson’s Roots‐style supercharger, water-to-air intercooler, long-tube headers, high-flow cats, X-pipe, Trick heads and some electronic refinements. The base-level ZX-1 tune is includes just the long-tube headers, high-flow cats, X-pipe, supercharger and intercooler, and is good for about 630 horsepower. If you lack the equipment to handle such power, Bennett will gladly leave the performance mods off.

With the enormous power output, the `Vette needs an equally capable braking system. To address this, Bennett installed the Brembo Gran Turismo braking kit, which includes 14-inch front rotors with six-piston caliper and 13.6-inch rear rotors with four-piston calipers. To help you out in the twist, Bennett installed a Pfadt coil-over adjustable suspension along with front and rear sway bars.

With a production run of just 200 cars, the Bennett ZX-1 won’t be a car commonly seen, so snag one up while you still can.

Click past the jump to read Bennett's press release