2007 Chevrolet Corvette Z06. December 2006

Last month's '69 'Vette and this month's brand-spanking new '07 model Corvette are about as different as you can get. They share the name, and engine capacity in this example, but not a lot else!

Our feature car is a C6, the latest generation Corvette, that debuted in 2005.

While the base-spec Corvette coupe is impressive enough, the Z06 version of the C6 takes performance to a new level. Chevrolet engineers and designers took lessons learnt from their successful C5-R Corvette racing program (class winner at Le Mans and multiple ALMS victories) and applied them to the new Z06 with spectacular results. With 377kW and 637Nm of torque, and a body weight of just 1421kg, the Z06 delivers a blistering 0 to 100kph time of just 3.7 seconds, covers the quarter mile in an astonishing 11.5 seconds, and has a top speed in excess of 300kph. To date, it's the fastest, most powerful car ever produced by Chevrolet and GM.

The new Z06 featured here was developed in conjunction with the all new C6-R ALMS racer, and the engineers ended up with a totally unique vehicle that has its own dedicated power train, body structure and chassis system, distinct from the base model Corvettes.

The most impressive part of the package is the new 'LS7' 7.0lt/427 cubic inch Gen IV V8, with lightweight reciprocating components that were lifted directly from the all conquering C5-R. This small block 427 is hand built at GM Powertrain's new Performance Centre, and delivers 500 horsepower at 6200rpm and 475 lb/ft of torque at 4800rpm with a redline of 7000rpm. It features titanium connecting rods and intake valves and a dry sump engine lubrication system. Linked to this engine is a 6 speed close ratio manual gearbox with a nicely weighted clutch. According to Kevin at Corvette QLD, the new Z06 sounds the part too, with its new three inch bimodal exhaust system. This apparently reduces exhaust noise at idle and moderate driving while providing reduced back pressure at speed for race car-like performance. At wide open throttle, the sound emanating from the four trumpet-shaped exhaust outlets is nothing short of sensational.

While performance has always been a Corvette hallmark, the C4 'Vette saw a shift towards a more refined, high-tech sports car. The C6 continues this tradition, with features such as the new keyless access and push button start, standard in-dash 6 disc CD changer, MP3 and Bose 7 speaker sound system, heated 6 way power adjustable sports leather seats and safety features such as dual airbags, ABS brakes and traction control.

On the outside, the first thing you notice on the Z06 Corvette is the exposed headlights, part of the worldwide safety-driven move away from pop-up lights. Curves are back, too. Compare this car with last month's 'Vette and you'll see the attractive 'Coke bottle' shape returns - albeit in a more subtle form - after going AWOL on the C4 and not as pronounced on the C5 'Vettes.

In order to get the most out of the 427ci V8, the Z06 features carbon fibre front guards and wheel housings, carbon fibre sandwiched floor, aluminium frame and magnesium engine cradle. All these lightweight components are exclusive to the Z06.

Kevin believes the performance of our feature 'Vette meets or surpasses that of cars that cost many times more, and also pushes the envelope to limits enthusiast drivers wouldn't have imagined 10 years ago. That's not just car salesman-speak, either! Press reports on the C6 Corvette and particularly the Z06, have been positive across the board. Producing more than 1g in lateral grip, numbers that surpass that of a Porsche 911 turbo and even a Ferrari F430.

At a starting price of $220,000 for a new 2007 model Z06 with a full 3 year 75,000km warranty, compliance and RHD conversion, this car makes a lot of sense for the modern performance enthusiast. Base model '07 Corvettes start at $175,000. While last month's 'Vette was one for the traditionalist, this one is definitely one for the 'New Millenium' 'Vette enthusiast. If you've been in the market for a fully-loaded Porsche or Merc SL coupe, the Z06 Corvette is definitely worth a look as an alternative.

Corvette QLD is the only company in Australia to hold compliance on all current model Corvettes, so if a new Z06 or standard C6 Corvette sounds good to you, talk to Kevin or Iain for more details or to arrange a test drive.

Mike Ryan

WHAT, WHERE, WHEN & HOW MUCH
Model: Chevrolet Corvette Z06
Year: 2007
Dealer: Corvette Queensland
Cnr Bruce Hwy & Hall Rd
Gympie, QLD, 4570
Ph: (07) 5482 7833

Price: From $220,000
0-100 kph: 3.7 seconds
Best point: It's got the lot
Worst point: See price
Recommendation: European Supercar performance at about half the price
Trivia: The new Corvette Z06 is the fastest street-legal production Corvette ever. Can your licence handle it?