The seventh-generation Chevrolet Corvette was unveiled in early 2013 and introduced for the 2014 model year. It replaced the nine-year-old C6 and essentially changed the way enthusiasts viewed the Corvette thanks to its significant upgrades. Besides the more angular and aggressive styling, the C7 also received a revamped interior that no longer made use of cheap plastics. The cabin was finally moved into premium territory, putting an end to decades of criticism. While it continued to use an all-motor V-8, the Corvette gained a supercharged unit with the Z06 badge. In 2017 Chevrolet took things to a whole new level with a new ZR1 model, the fourth since the early 1970s. Powered by a brand-new V-8, it's the ZR1 with highest output, greatest track performance, and most advanced technology in its production history!

It took Chevrolet some four years to revise the range-topping ZR1, but the wait was definitely worth it. The new supercharged coupe surpasses every rumor we've been through so far with a significantly revised exterior, a menacing, race-inspired rear wing, and a supercharged V-8 engine that was designed on a clean sheet. After years of speculation, dozens of camouflaged test cars, and rumors that GM is also working on a mid-engined Corvette, the ZR1 is here to prove that Chevrolet isn't yet willing to give up on its fantastic tradition and that the ZR1 legend will live on for a few more years. And, for the very first time since the Corvette was introduced more than five decades ago, it's safe to say that Chevrolet finally has a competitor for the high-end supercars out there. Keep reading to find out why.

Continue reading to learn more about the Chevrolet Corvette ZR1.

2019 Chevrolet Corvette ZR1

Specifications

• Make: Array
• Model: 2019 Chevrolet Corvette ZR1
• Engine/Motor: V8
• Horsepower: 755 @ 6300
• Torque: 715 @ 4400
• Transmission: 7-speed manual
• [do not use] Vehicle Model: Array

Pros

Cons

Exterior

As suspected since we saw the first prototypes, the ZR1 arrived with a ton of new features compared to the Z06, including a massive change in the aerodynamics department.

Up front, the headlamps and the nose are the only features that remind of the C7 Corvette. The bumper was redesigned on a clean sheet. The wide intake seen on other Corvettes is gone, replaced by a three-piece layout with a narrower opening in the middle and two massive intakes onto the sides. A honeycomb-like mesh complements all three, but the holes are larger than usual, which gives the bumper a menacing stance. The splitter is bigger than any similar unit seen on a Corvette before and puts even that of the race-spec C7.R to shame.

The engine hood is also new, and its center section is insanely tall. Designed this way in order to make way for the larger supercharger, it has a custom carbon-fiber "halo" opening. As we move onto the sides, when can see new vertical fins on the side splitter, redesigned vents on the front fenders, and more aggressive side skirts. Around back, everything seems to be the same below the decklid. The ZR1 keeps the four-pipe, center-mounted layout and the same diffuser, with only a "ZR1" badge setting it apart from the Z06. However, there's a new wing to talk about. Actually, there's two because Chevrolet offers two wind tunnel-designed aero packages.

First up is the standard low wing, which delivers the highest top speed and helps generate up to 70-percent more downforce than the Z06. Although low, the wing is pretty wide and makes the ZR1 look like a full-fledged race car. Things become even more aggressive with the optional High Wing package. Replacing the low wing with a much higher, new-design unit, this bundle provides an estimated 950 pounds of downforce. This package basically offers maximum downforce on the track for the quickest lap times — Chevy says it comes with about 60 percent more downforce than the Z06 with the available Z07 Performance Package.

Both wings are tied into the chassis, like on the Corvette Racing C7.R racecar, for enhanced strength and stability. Both ZR1 models also feature a downforce-enhancing front underwing.

Alongside these performance packages, Chevy also launched the Sebring Orange Package with the ZR1. The bundle adds new design features inside and out, including Sebring Orange Tintcoat exterior color and orange brake calipers and rocker panel and splitter accents stripes.

All told, the ZR1 is not only the meanest Corvette ever built, but also the most aggressive vehicle wearing a Chevrolet badge.

Exterior Dimensions

THE COMPETITION

There aren’t many sports cars out there that have such big wings and are still legal on public roads. One good example is the Porsche 911 GT2 RS, but it's not as powerful as the Corvette ZR1. And it's not as menacing as the Chevy on the outside either. Sure, it has plenty of aero bits, and it looks pretty similar to the company's track-only models, but it still has that organic, somewhat polished look modern 911s are known for. It's nowhere near as angular as the Corvette ZR1, which feels a bit more modern so to speak. However, if you're looking for a race-inspired design, this Porsche is a solid proposition!

You can get a more aggressive design with the Ferrari 488 GTB, but only if you’re willing to pay in excess of $200,000 to take one home. Comparing a Ferrari to a Corvette might be upsetting to some purists, mostly because the 488 GTB comes with a mid-engine configuration and significantly more luxury and cachet, but the ZR1 looks ready to give the 488 GTB a run for its money as far as design goes. Although it also lacks a rear wing, the GTB sports a fresh styling language that combines elements from the previous 458 Italia and the LaFerrari supercar. While the front fascia and most of the side panels look rather plain, the wide rear haunches and race-inspired rear end with classic looking round taillights give the Ferrari a unique appearance.

Interior

Upgrades aren't as radical inside the cabin, but this is far from surprising. The Z06 gained mild updates of the standard model, so I'm not surprised to see that the ZR1 package doesn't change all that much inside the cabin. But you will notice that this isn't a Z06 as soon as you open the door.

The first thing that catches the eye is the carbon-fiber inserts on the steering wheel. The seats are also wrapped in leather as standard, while Alcantara inserts remind that this 'Vette was built for quick lap times. Optionally, you can go with Competition sport seats, which are wrapped in Nappa leather and have heating and ventilation. Chevy also offers the Performance Data Recorder that allows you to record your experience at the track, and a Bose premium audio system.

When equipped with the Sebring Orange Package, the ZR1 gets orange seatbelts and contrast stitching and bronze aluminum trim. The latter is visible on the steering wheel, center console, center stack, door panels, and the seats. Of course, the ZR1 also comes with plenty of carbon-fiber, particularly on the center stack and the driver-side dashboard.

Interior Dimensions

THE COMPETITION

Much like its exterior, the GT2 RS' interior is less aggressive than the ZR1. But that's not a bad thing. Classy and simple, yet stylish, the Porsche’s cabin is made from high-quality materials only. Somehow Porsche managed to blend the classy looks of the 911 with the sporty looks of its FIA-spec race cars. The dashboard and door panels also include leather inserts and contrast stitching, while red accents on the steering wheels, door panels, and A-pillars add a dash of color to an otherwise black layout. The race-spec seats made from carbon-fiber help set the Porsche apart, as does the full roll cage mounted in the rear compartment. Tech goodies include the Porsche Communication Management system, Porsche Connect Plus, and the Track Precision app that comes with the Chrono Package.

Opt for the Ferrari 488 GTB, and you’ll end up with a race-inspired cabin with tons of high-quality stuff all over the place. The Maranello-built sports car doesn’t differ much from the 911 as far as technology goes, but it's cabin seems more suited for cruising rather than track performance.

Drivetrain

Drivetrain upgrades are worthy of the aggressive, race-inspired exterior. The potent LT4 engine in the Z06 was replaced by an even more powerful V-8 unit. Called the LT5, probably a throwback to the V-8 engine in the C4-generation ZR1, this new V-8 is also supercharged, but the blower is 52-percent larger than in the Z06. The combo also utilizes GM's first dual-fuel-injection, which employs primary direct injection and supplemental port injection. This not only helps the LT5 achieve its massive output, but also keeps fuel consumption relatively low at up to 23 mpg highway and up to 15 mpg city.

Speaking of performance, the 6.2-liter V-8 cranks out a whopping 755 horsepower and 715 pound-feet of torque. That's 105 horses and 65 pound-feet more than the Z06 and 300 horsepower and 255 pound-feet more than the standard Corvette. It's worth noting that the ZR1 is the most powerful Chevrolet ever made. Impressive!

The extra oomph and the revised aerodynamics send the ZR1 flying from 0 to 60 mph in 2.8 seconds, almost two tenths quicker than the Z06. Top speed is rated at "over 210 mph," at least 25 mph more than the Corvette Z06! That's also only seven mph less than high-end Ferrari and Lamborghini supercars.

Two transmissions are available, which is a first for the ZR1. Previous available with only manual transmissions, the new ZR1 can be had with an eight-speed automatic with paddle shifters. The manual box is Chevrolet's latest seven-speed. Of course, both gearboxes have been optimized for the ZR1's drivetrain.

Cooling was also improved, with four new radiators added to increase the number of heat exchangers to 13. The High Wing package adds Michelin Pilot Sport Cup 2 summer-only tires and specific chassis and Magnetic Ride Control tuning for greater cornering grip.

Drivetrain Specifications

COMPETING PERFORMANCE

While the 911 GT2 RS and 488 GTB aren’t as powerful as the Corvette ZR1, both are quick enough to give the American coupe a run for its money. Having adopted turbo technology since the 1990s, Porsche makes the quickest force-fed sports cars on the market the current 911 GT2 RS its most exciting product yet. Powered by a 3.8-liter flat-six and two turbochargers, the GT2 RS comes with 700 horsepower and 553 pound-feet of torque. Although significantly less powerful, the GT2 RS needs only 2.7 seconds to hit 60 mph, which is quicker than the Corvette ZR1. Top speed is a mind-blowing 211 mph.

Likewise, the 488 GTB is pretty well suited to keep up with the ZR1. Also using a turbocharged V-8, a first for the brand’s entry-level supercar, the GTB comes with 660 horsepower and 560 pound-feet on tap, which enables it to charge to 60 mph in a scant three seconds. It might not be as quick as the ’Vette, but the upcoming GTB Scuderia should be quick enough. Top speed is rated at 203 mph, and before you say it's not as fast as the ZR1, it's more than you'll ever need on public roads.

Prices

As the quickest and most powerful C7-generation Corvette, the ZR1 is also be the most expensive, retailing from $119,995. The sticker includes destination charges, but excludes tax, title, and dealer fees. The ZTK Performance Package, which includes the High Wing, costs $2,995, which means that the high-winged ZR1 retails from $122,990. But even though it costs significantly more than the Z06, which retails from $79,495 as of December 2017, it's quite affordable compared to vehicles that deliver similar performance.

HOW MUCH FOR THE COMPETITION?

Well, the competition is pretty expensive. Of all the cars named above, the Ferrari 488 GTB is the most affordable at around $240,000. That's double the amount you'd have to pay for a Corvette ZR1, though. The Porsche 911 GT2 RS fetches even more, smashing the bank at $293,200 before options. However, chances are you won't be able to buy one anytime soon as these cars sell like hot cakes. Granted, both the Porsche and Ferrari will give you a more premium interior, more features, and more ways to customize everything from upholstery to trim elements, but is it worth it? If you care about the badge, yes. If performance is all you're interested in, the ZR1 will give you similar specs for a significantly more affordable price tag.

Competition

McLaren 720S

A comparison between a Chevy and a McLaren may seem ludicrous, but the purpose is to highlight just how powerful and fast the new ZR1 really is. Developed as a replacement for the 650S, the 720S is obviously a potent supercar and has an aggressive, race-inspired design. It also has a mid-engined layout, which makes the comparison a bit unfair. Unlike the ZR1, the 720S is made almost entirely of carbon-fiber, and its cabin is far more radical in terms of design and technology. Under the hood, it hides a twin-turbo, 4.0-liter V-8 that cranks out a massive 710 horsepower and 568 pound-feet of torque. That's a bit less than the Chevy, but the incredibly light body and chassis and the quick shifting seven-speed dual-clutch transmission push it from 0 to 60 mph in only 2.8 seconds. This should be on par with the ZR1, which is a big advantage for the American coupe. The 720S' top speed is rated at 212 mph, which is only marginally higher than the ZR1's. Pricing exceeds $280,000, but the McLaren is by far the more exclusive car here.

Read our full story on the 2018 McLaren 720S.

Corvette ZR1 History

The ZR1 nameplate was first used in 1970, almost two years after Chevrolet had launched the third-generation Corvette. Unlike the modern ZR1, the first version was just a drivetrain upgrade. Priced at $1,221, the option was available exclusively with the LT-1 mill and included a heavy-duty four-speed transmission, power brakes, aluminum radiator, and a revised suspension with special springs, shocks, stabilizer bar, and spindle-strut shafts. On the other hand, Chevy wanted the ZR1 to be a track-prepped option so all cars equipped with this package didn't have power windows, power steering, air conditioning, a rear-window defogger, wheel covers, or a radio. Only 53 cars were built between 1970 and 1972.

Chevy also offered a ZR2 package. This cost $1,747 and was essentially identical to the ZR1, but adapted for the bonkers LS-6 V-8 engine, which was rated at a whopping 425 horsepower. Only 12 were built in 1971, its only year on the market.

The ZR-1 returned in 1990, this time around with a hyphen. The revival of the badge was closerly related to the fact that General Motor acquired Lotus in 1986 and approached the British firm with the idea of creating the world's fastest production car based on the C4-generation Corvette. A new engine was designed by the two firms; an aluminum-block V-8 called the LT5. Lotus also designed the air managemen, braking, and steering systems. Rated at 375 horsepower, the ZR-1 was one of the quickest vehicles of the era, needing only 4.4 seconds to hit 60 mph from a standing start. Top speed was rated at more than 180 mph. The ZR-1 set a few World Records in 1990, including a 24-hour endurance test at 175.8 mph, 12-hour endurance at 175.5 mph, and 5,000 miles at 173.7 mph. Although it was almost twice as expensive as the standard model, the ZR-1 was a big success and remained in production until 1995.

It took the ZR another 19 years to make a comeback. After skipping the C5, the ZR1 returned for the C6-generation Corvette, launching for the 2009 model year. The ZR1 was powered by a supercharged, 6.2-liter LS9 V-8 and became the most powerful Corvette in history with a power rating of 638 horsepower and 595 pound-feet of torque. This was surpassed when Chevy launched the 650-horsepower, C7-generation Z06. The ZR1 has a carbon-fiber roof, hood, fenders, and front splitter, larger wheels, and carbon-ceramic brakes. Magnetic Selective Ride Control was also included in the package. The sprint from 0 to 60 mph took only 3.3 seconds, while top speed was estimated at 205 mph.

Conclusion

While it’s no longer the most anticipated Corvette — being superseded by the mid-engined version expected until the end of the decade — the ZR1 is definitely one of the most exciting American vehicles we will get in dealerships starting 2018. The twin-turbo engine, the immense output, and the extreme aerodynamic kit makes it a worthy competitor for the Ferrari 488 GTB and Porsche 911 GT2 RS, a feat Corvette enthusiasts have been dreaming since... well, forever. The front-engined configuration also makes it more appealing to purists who might take a few years to adjust to a mid-engine sports car wearing the Corvette badge. All we can hope is that the ZR1 won’t be the last front-engined ’Vette.

References

Chevrolet Corvette

Read our full review on the 2017 Chevrolet Corvette.

Read our full review on the 2017 Chevrolet Corvette Z06.

Read our full review on the 2009 Chevrolet Corvette ZR1.

Read more Chevrolet news.

Spy Shots

April 20, 2017 - Corvette ZR1 gets loud on the Nurburgring

April 18, 2017 - Corvette ZR1 caught testing on the Nurburgring

November 29, 2016 - Corvette ZR1 starts dropping camouflage

August 12, 2016 - Corvette ZR1 out for a new testing session

Update History

Updated 04/18/2017: Our spy photographers caught the upcoming Corvette ZR1 out for a new testing session, this time around Nurburgring.

Updated 12/15/2016: Based on the recent details and spy shots, we created a rendering for the upcoming Corvette ZR1. Let us know in the comments section below what do you think about it.

Updated 11/29/2016: Our spy photographers caught the upcoming Corvette ZR1 out for a new testing session. When compared to the previous prototypes, this new one dropped significant camouflage, meaning its world debut is imminent.

Updated 08/12/2016: The upcoming Corvette ZR1 was caught out for a new testing session, offering us another proof that a high-performance version of the seventh generation Corvette is right around the corner.