The sixth-generation Chevy Corvette continued the performance trend begun by the previous generation with its advent of the LS engine platform and return of the Z06 moniker as the high-output model. In 2006, the sixth-gen Corvette got a Z06 of its own, with a 427 cubic-inch Small Block yielding 505 horsepower and 470 pound-feet of torque, and lighter weight than the standard coupe courtesy of a 30-percent lighter aluminum frame, a magnesium-supported fixed roof panel, a magnesium engine cradle, and much less sound deadening material. Chevrolet followed up the Z06 with the ZR1 in 2009.
The Chevy Corvette ZR1 was one of the worst-kept secrets in the automotive world. Internally code named “Blue Devil,” the ZR1 used a revamped version of the base Corvette 6.2-liter LS3 called the LS9. Although the displacement was the same, the design used a 10.5-quart dry sump lubrication system, a Roots-type four-lobe supercharger, and 9.1 compression all combined to make a startling 638 horsepower and 604 pound-feet of torque. The LS9 was the most powerful passenger-car engine GM had produced to that point. The new blown monster motor was backed by a beefier version of the six-speed manual gearbox and twin-disc clutch. The ZR1 was not available with an automatic transmission. Base price for the ZR1 was $103,300, and included high-performance driving school training.
The new Chevy Corvette ZR1 put that incredible power to good use, laying down a 3.4-second zero-to-sixty time, zero-to-100 flashing by in just over seven seconds, and the quarter-mile in a blazing 11.3 seconds at 127 miles per hour. Top speed was right at 200 miles per hour, putting the ZR1 squarely in the supercar category with many of the finest Europe had to offer.
In addition to the blown LS9, the ZR1 came equipped with Selective Magnetic Ride Control suspension system adapted specifically for the car, vented and drilled ceramic Brembo brake rotors measuring 15.5 inches with six-pot binders in front and 15 inches with four-piston calipers in the back. The rocker moldings, front splitter, roof bow, fixed roof panel, hood, and front fenders were all formed from carbon fiber, with the hood featuring a clear polycarbonate window that allowed the engine (or at least the engine cover) to be seen. Standard rubber on the ZR1 was Michelin Pilot Sport PS2s in 285/30ZR19s in front, and steamroller sized 335/25ZR20s in back.
Our feature 2009 Chevy Corvette ZR1 has covered just under seven thousand miles from new. Finished in glossy Cyber Gray over Sienna and Ebony leather, the ZR1 is equipped with the 3ZR Premium Equipment Group, which includes heated seats with memory, power adjustable steering column, a Bose sound system with steering wheel audio controls, navigation, xenon headlights, a head-up display, and Keyless Access. It is powered by the beastly LS9 backed by the six-speed manual transmission.
This stunning Chevy Corvette ZR1 is currently being auctioned on Bring a Trailer with the sale concluding Tuesday, June 25th.
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Comments
No interesting comments or points to make here. Just reiterating the obvious fact of what an incredibly beautiful ride this is!
These were very good cars that got quickly forgotten as the C7 came soon after.
Very nice Sunday morning driver. I get it , and it’s hard not to drive them. I’ve had 8 new corvettes, 3 Z06’s. Never a ZR1 ! Around 1000. Miles a year if we are lucky. We enjoyed knowing we have it there. When we have time to get out to relax. Hope the sale goes well.
In 2009, I bought a new ZR1 that is exactly like this car. Living in Michigan, at the time, I didn’t drive it very much. In 2012, I bought a winter home in Fort Myers Beach Florida and shipped the car South. Since then, it has been my “everyday driver/grocery getter” for six months out of the year. It has seen thunderstorms and flooded streets, but it is sure fun to drive on that hot Florida asphalt.
Amazing cars, I want one so bad. Because you can really use it as a daily driver, but also a highway racecar. Obviously I would never drive it in rain or anything because I’m not dumb but you can put miles on them and they still run great