Chevrolet Corvette ZR1

The Corvette ZR1 is a high-performance variant of the Chevrolet Corvette that spans five generations, including C3, C4 (as the ZR-1), C6, C7 and C8.

Quick Facts

Corvette C3 ZR1

1970 Corvette ZR1

Introduced for the 1970 model year, the first-ever Corvette ZR1 was offered as a $1,221 option on the Corvette C3. Available exclusively with the solid-lifter LT-1 powerplant (not to be confused with the 6.2L V8 LT1 used in the 2014-2019 Corvette C7), this performance package included a heavy-duty four-speed manual transmission, power brakes, aluminum radiator, and a revised suspension with special springs, shocks, stabilizer bars, and spindle-strut shafts.

As a competition-focused option, the C3 ZR1 could not be ordered with power windows, power steering, air conditioning, a rear-window defogger, wheel covers, or a radio.

The C3 ZR1 model was available from 1970 to 1972, and only 53 examples were built, with 25 in 1970, 8 in 1971, and 20 in 1972.

1971 Corvette ZR1

It’s worth noting that General Motors also offered the $1,747 ZR2 engine package exclusively for the 1971 model year. Available in conjunction with the high-performance ZR1 package – and featuring all the same equipment – the ZR2 option added the 454-ci LS-6 engine. Interestingly, while all other 1971 Corvette models were detuned to run on low-lead fuel, C3 Vettes equipped with the LS-6 were exempt from this policy and developed 425 horsepower. Only 12 units were produced, including two convertible models.

Corvette C4 ZR-1

1990 Corvette ZR-1

Unveiled at the 1989 Geneva Motor Show, the Corvette C4 ZR-1 was co-developed with Group Lotus, a UK-based engineering firm acquired by General Motors in 1986. Available from the 1990 to 1995 model years, the C4 ZR-1 was only offered as a fastback coupe with a removable roof panel, and was distinguishable from other Corvette models by its wider tail section and rear wheels, along with a new rear fascia that featured four square-shaped taillights.

It’s worth noting that all Corvette models received the C4 ZR-1’s rear fascia and square taillamps for the 1991 model year.

One of the more notable features of the C4 ZR-1 was its powerplant, which was a first for production-spec Corvettes. More specifically, Group Lotus designed what General Motors ultimately dubbed the LT5 (not to be confused with the 6.2L V8 LT5 found in the Corvette C7 ZR1). This special engine featured an all-aluminum block and DOHC setup, as well as a unique air management system consisting of variable intake runners and fuel injectors. Total engine output originally stood at 375 horsepower and 370 pound-feet of torque, yet jumped to 405 horsepower and 385 pound-feet of torque from 1993 to 1995 following updates to the valvetrain. Meanwhile, a specially-designed six-speed manual transmission directed output to the 315-series rear tires.

1990 Corvette ZR-1

Other noteworthy performance goodies of the C4 ZR-1 include upgraded braking and steering systems, along with an FX3 suspension setup that featured six separate damping settings across three driving modes.

While the intent behind the development of the C4 ZR-1 was to create the fastest production car in the world, the naturally aspirated 5.7L V8 LT5 gasoline engine was noted for its endurance and held various records related to its robustness, including:

• 100 miles at 175.600 mph
• 500 miles at 175.503 mph
• 1,000 miles at 174.428 mph
• 5,000 km at 175.710 mph
• 5,000 miles at 173.791 mph
• 12 Hours Endurance at 175.523 mph
• 24 Hours Endurance at 175.885 mph for 4,221.256 miles

Corvette C6 ZR1

2009 Corvette ZR1

Developed under the code name “Blue Devil”, rumors surrounding the Corvette C6 ZR1 circled for several years until General Motors officially revealed the high-performance Vette for the 2009 model year. Produced until the 2013 model year, the C6 ZR1 featured numerous upgrades over the track-focused Corvette C6 Z06, one of the more notable pieces being the supercharged 6.2L V8 LS9 gasoline engine, which developed 638 horsepower and 604 pound-feet of torque and was mated to a specially-tuned Tremec TR6060 six-speed manual transmission. This power output enabled the C6 ZR1 to achieve top speeds in excess of 190 mph. Additional performance bits include carbon ceramic brakes and Magnetic Selective Ride Control.

2009 Corvette ZR1

Further differences between the C6 ZR1 and other Corvette C6 models include a polycarbonate window in the center of the hood to show off the engine intercooler, the largest wheels mounted on a production Corvette, blue-painted brake calipers and trimming, and a carbon fiber roof, hood, fenders, front splitter, and rocker moldings.

Notably, the carbon fiber hood and fenders were painted over, while the roof and splitter were covered in a clear-coat, thus retaining their original black hue.

Corvette C7 ZR1

2019 Corvette ZR1

Officially unveiled at the 2017 Dubai Motor Show, the Corvette C7 ZR1 was only offered for the 2019 model year. General Motors implemented extensive upgrades over the Corvette C7 Z06, including the supercharged 6.2L V8 LT5 gasoline engine. Through the 2.6L Eaton supercharger and dual-injection fuel system, this powerplant produced 755 horsepower and 715 pound-feet of torque. Additional improvements included a revised engine cooling system with large bumper and hood vents, a large intercooler, and a total of 13 radiators.

Another notable aspect of the C7 ZR1 was its aero package. The high-performance Vette was available with two distinct packages, the first being a Pratt & Miller-developed chassis-mounted rear wing, a front splitter, and a new front underbody spoiler. Meanwhile, the optional ZTK Performance Package featured Michelin Pilot Sport Cup 2 tires, specific chassis and magnetic ride control settings, a higher fixed rear wing, and carbon fiber front splitter end caps, all of which enabled the C7 ZR1 to develop up to 950 pounds of downforce.

2019 Corvette ZR1

Offered with either a Tremec TR6070 seven-speed manual transmission or the GM 8L90 eight-speed automatic transmission, the ZR1 was available in either coupe of convertible configuration, the latter of which weighed an additional 60 pounds over the former.

Corvette C8 ZR1

The Corvette C8 ZR1 will launch for the 2025 model year, marking the first time that the ZR1 badge will grace the mid-engine Corvette. The C8 ZR1 is expected to be powered by the LT7 V8 – a twin-turbocharged version of the Dual Overhead Cam (DOHC) 5.5L V8 LT6 used in the C8 Z06. Though exact power output is currently unknown, the twin-boosted V8 is expected to deliver in the vicinity of 850 horsepower and 700 pound-feet of torque. The LT7 will swap the flat-plane crank of the LT6 for a cross-plane crank. The dual-clutch 8-speed automatic gearbox will continue to do shifting duty, sending power to the rear wheels.

In April 2024, after several bouts of prototype spy shots, Chevrolet officially confirmed that the C8 ZR1 will be revealed in the summer of 2024. The vehicle was secretly shown to dealers months prior.

Unlike prior Corvette ZR1 generations, the C8 ZR1 will not be the flagship of the range. For this generation, that spot will be reserved for the C8 Zora.

Sales

See Corvette sales numbers for global markets.

Discussion

Discuss the ZR1 in our Chevrolet forum.

ZR1 News

3

2025 C8 Corvette ZR1 0-60, Quarter Mile Times Revealed

More insane specs from the monster Vette!

Read More »

9

2025 Corvette ZR1 Is Official Pace Car For 109th Indy 500

Driven by Michael Strahan.

Read More »

All ZR1 News