Deep Dive: The 2014 Chevy Corvette C7 Stingray And Its Z51 Performance Package
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By this time, you might already know about the all-new 2014 Corvette Stingray and its beautifully-functional exterior, high-quality interior and in-cabin technology, light-weight and stiff frame, as well as its capable chassis. And during that time, you might have come across mentions of the optional Z51 Performance Package. Well, here’s what the baddest from-the-factory performance package for the Stingray contains.
Electronic Limited-Slip Differential
The job of the smart electronic Limited Slip Differential (eLSD) included in the Z51 Performance Package is to constantly make the most of the torque split between the rear wheels. The system utilizes a hydraulically-actuated clutch that is capable of varying clutch engagement, being able to respond from open to full engagement in tenths of a second.
The eLSD distributes torque based on a unique algorithm that takes into account vehicle speed, steering input, and throttle position to improve steering feel, handling balance, and traction. In addition, the functionality of the eLSD is adjusted with the selection of the Driver Mode Selector. By changing the rate at which the limited slip engages to balance between steering response and stability in different driving conditions, the eLSD provides more aggressive performance in Sport and Track modes.
Enhanced Cooling
The Z51 Performance Package also brings integrated brake, differential, and transmission cooling. Models with the automatic transmission or the Z51 Performance Package feature a functional vent on the driver’s side of the C7 that directs air over a heat exchanger for the transmission fluid; a similar arrangement on the passenger side directs air over a heat exchanger for the electronic limited slip differential.
In addition, Z51 also brings a unique aerodynamics package, brake cooling ducts, and a unique rear spoiler work to deliver enhanced performance at the track and stability at high speeds.
Transmission
According to GM, the transmission on Corvettes with the Z51 Performance Package includes specific close-ratio gearing for more aggressive driving. We have yet to receive the full specifications on the close-ratio goodness.
Wheels & Tires
While the “standard” Corvette Stingray utilizes a set of new 18 x 8.5-inch front and 19 x 10-inch rear wheels, models with the Z51 Performance Package sit on 19 x 8.5-inch front and 20 x 10-inch rear forged aluminum wheels. Both sets of wheels are wrapped in a set of new Michelin Pilot Super Sport run-flat tires developed specifically for the seventh-generation Corvette to deliver comparable levels of grip than the wider tires of previous models.
As such, the track-oriented Corvette Stingray with the Z51 Performance Package can achieve 1g in cornering acceleration, performance that is comparable to the 2013 Corvette Grand Sport.
Notably, that is all achieved with a reduced “footprint” thanks to the narrower and lighter wheels and tires, reducing rolling resistance, steering effort and road noise — factors that contribute to a more nimble feel, more immediate steering response and greater touring comfort and efficiency.
Suspension
The “standard” 2014 Corvette Stingray utilizes 35mm-piston Bilstein monotube shocks, while the Z51 Performance Package is equipped with 45mm-piston Bilstein dampers for more aggressive body control and track capability.
Furthermore, Z51 is offered with the third-generation of GM’s Magnetic Ride Control featuring a new twin-wire/dual-coil damper system that reacts 40 percent faster, enabling improved ride comfort and body control.
Brakes
The “standard” Corvette Stingray makes use of 12.6-inch (320 mm) front rotors and 13.3-inch (338 mm) rear rotors, while the Z51 utilizes dual-cast and slotted 13.6-inch (345 mm) front rotors and 13.3-inch (338 mm) slotted rear rotors. They have six percent more swept area than the previous-generation Grand Sport while being cooled in the front and the rear for improved track capability. Thanks to this, stopping distance is improved by 5 percent on the C7 Z51.
Dry-Sump Oiling System
The Z51 Stingray also features a dry-sump oil system, resulting in the prevention of oil starvation at high g loads, and a lower center of gravity — both qualities important to a sports car such as the Corvette.
And while we don’t know how much the Z51 package will cost when the C7 hits dealership in the third quarter of 2013 (heck, we don’t even know the starting price of the 2014 Corvette yet), would you opt for the Z51? Sound off in the comments!
More on the 2014 Corvette C7:
- C7 Corvette Exterior Deep Dive
- C7 Corvette Exterior Video Tour
- C7 Corvette Interior Deep Dive
- C7 Corvette Interior Video Tour
- C7 Corvette Frame Deep Dive
- C7 Corvette Chassis Deep Dive
The package is very extensive. The capability certainly provides for performance well beyond a daily driver. I would prepare for a hefty price to go with it- that will be the largest consideration factor. Please offer an sub-option to delete the rear spoiler.
I probably would not opt for the Z51 as what GM has been saying is the ‘base’ Stingray will out perform the current Grand Sport which is plenty good enough for me. Considering the Z51 will probably be in the 7k, plus the option with the magnetic ride control with estimates in the 53k range would put the Z51 at or near 60k.
One thing I have noticed is conflicting reports as to what is standard and what is on the Z51. Ed Welburn said to Jay Leno that the rear spoiler was standard on the Stingray. And GM continues to stress that it is not a ‘base’ Corvette, it is the Corvette Stingray which they are basing the performance figures on. It’s early and everyone is excited so I am sure more reliable information will come soon.
I want this car and I want it with the Z51 option. It looks great with the enhanced spoiler. Even if I got the base Corvette I would add the larger spoiler.
When I bought my C6 I debated about the upgraded performance package since i was not planning on racing the car. I ended up getting it and now looking back it was the right decision and I wouldn’t be without it. If the package on the new C7 is equally exciting I’d definitely check that box.
Alex, are you sure the “base” C7 has larger rear brake rotors (13.3″) than front rotors (12.6″)? That would make no sense at all!
I would like to see a base C7 and the Z51 equivalent side by side to note the differences, but until a price sheet comes out, I wouldn’t be able to decide. Even a seat upgrade could be pricey. The base price I will live with. It’s performance and appeal will be more then enough.
If I’m going to stepup to the plate and order a c7 it would have to have the z51 package when you read this. how about green with a tan interior oooohho. or black
My understanding is the z51 package was replaced by the Grand Sport package on the C6. Since GM has brought the Z51 back what does that say about a Grand Sport option for C7? The GS has been a great seller, just speculating,but maybe they believe with a potential for increased sales with the new model there is more room to diversify the lineup. Or is anyone certain the GS is coming back?
This article does not differentiate between the available “Z51 FE3″ package and the available “Z51 FE4″ package ? Please clarify.
I’ve gotta have the Z51 option, because magnetic shocks!
I already checked the Z51 option for my new Stingray. I don’t even know the price yet but I’m already on the waiting list. Black on black Z51 with red stitching to offset the black leather. Identical colors as my current C6. Cant get myself to trade it in though, may have to have them both. The thought of them sitting side by side in the garage gives me grin as wide as the grinch,
I’m all in with a Laguna Blue Z51! #2 on the waiting list! But damn if I am not sure if I would rather have a black one……. Ah, such a decision! Luckily it is not ordering time yet! But then there is the other models you know are going to come out at some point. Ugh. I may never make up my mind.
Im questioning if the rims are different on the c7 and z51 as there are two rim options. One that looks like the old C6 (ugly) and the new ones that look like the old ZO6 (nice). Are the 10 spokes available on the C7? Because I absolutely hate the 5 spokes they have created.
I’m on the preorder list (#46) for a C7 Z51. As of today they don’t have a complete option list or pricing yet.
After a string of 22 Porsches a 2014 Stingray with the Z51 package could break that string.
Z51 Package is the way to go. After driving an 06 STI for 6+ years, I’ve learned I need the electronic committee telling me what I can and cannot do. Originally I wanted the raw mechanics, after watching idiots romp on the throttle of their corvettes on the youtube, I realize, you know, I do like coming out of that turn with urgency… How much throttle is going to be good here? Since I wont have the all wheel drive to keep me straight and true, I think the eLSD will be necessary. I am 80% set on the Vette vs. the Merc c63 AMG. I want the manual gear box. I guess it’s my primal instinct… I know the flappy paddles will shift faster than I could ever think of, but I want to drive my car, not be driven.
It would seem to me, the stingray without the z51 package would be just another car.