The Corvette ZR1 Road Car the Fastest Ever Production Corvette
The Corvette ZR1 is a high performance version of the already very powerful standard Corvette. However with improved suspension components and a test program that tuned the handling on some of the most demanding roads and tracks, General Motors hope that their new flagship car will now have the agility and poise to take on the likes of the Porsche 911 Turbo.
On of the major differences of the ZR1 against the standard Corvette are the efforts that General Motors have undertaken to save weight. Instead of using conventional steel components the ZR1 utilises an all aluminium under structure, whilst the bonnet, front wings, inner wheel arches and roof are all made out of carbon fibre.
In order to hone the handling of the ZR1, General Motors asked Delphi to further enhance the MagneRide suspension control system, which offers significant improvements over previous generations, and increases the difference between the touring and Sport modes. GM also tested the ZR1 on its brand new handling and testing track in Detroit. This proving ground replicates the demanding corners, crests and swoops of some of the world's finest race tracks includong the Nurburgring's legendary Karussell.
When it comes to the engine, the Corvette ZR1 uses a mighty 6.2 litre V8 engine, which is boosted by a twin rotor Eaton supercharger that runs at 0.72 bar of boost, and enables the engine to produce 638 bhp and 604 lb ft of torque. This is considerably more powerful than the standard 430 bhp Vette and allows the ZR1 to reach 60 in 3.4 seconds and a top speed of 205 mph.
The centre of the bonnet houses a scratch proof, heat resistant and UV shielded polycarbonate window that allows you to clearly see the top cover of the intercooler. This will certainly mean that the ZR1 will stand out from lesser powered models. At the front a single air intake splits the xenon headlights, whilst a deep front spoiler hides further intakes and a carbon fibre splitter.
In producing the ZR1 General Motors have pushed the performance envelope of the Corvette even further and produced a car that is faster and handles considerably better than the standard 430 bhp version. However whilst there is no doubting the pace and ability of the ZR1, by the time it reaches the UK it will cost slightly more than a brand new Porsche 911 Turbo and when it comes to decision time, the Porsche will still be the more popular choice.
About the Author:Jo Alexander is an online, freelance journalist and keen windsurfer. Jo lives by the sea in Essex.
Article Source: ArticlesBase.com - The Corvette ZR1 Road Car the Fastest Ever Production Corvette