Z06 Corvette History Article
The Z06 s FE4 suspension has a larger front stabilizer bar, a stiffer rear leaf spring and revised camber settings for maximum control during high-speed operation. Unique aluminum wheels are an inch wider front and rear than those on standard Vettes. New wider and stickier, yet lighter weight, Goodyear Eagle F1 SC ,for Supercar, tires created specifically for the Z06 ,P265 40ZR17 front, P295 35ZR18 rear, have asymmetrical treads for optimum grip on wet and dry surfaces, a more compliant sidewall and better wear characteristics for on-track durability. Introduced in 2001 as a lightweight, ultra-performance coupe with a 6-speed manual transmission and a new 385 hp LS6 version of the 5.7 liter LS1 Corvette engine, the Z06 was the closest factory Vette in modern times to a track-ready racer. Calling it simply the quickest, best handling production Corvette ever, Chevy said it was aimed directly at diehard performance enthusiasts. For 2002, it got a 20 hp bump and a slew of additional refinements. The Z06 designation honors the efforts of Zora Arkus Duntov, Corvette's legendary first chief engineer who in 1963 created the original Z06 package, which was intended to make the then-new Sting Ray race-ready right out of the showroom. The current 405 hp LS6 engine is named for another Duntov creation, the 425-horse, gross, LS6 big-block V8 introduced in 1971. Only 188 Corvettes were sold with that original LS6 engine, which-second only in power to the legendary L88 racing engine available from 1967 to 1969-occupies a special niche in the Corvette legend. The LS6 s aluminum block provides better management of crankcase pressures and improved oiling during high-speed operation. Its cam profile is more aggressive and its 10.5 1 high-compression cylinder heads have improved porting, stronger valve springs and larger fuel injectors. A low-restriction titanium exhaust system-the first-ever in a mass-produced automobile-is 50 percent lighter than the stainless steel system it replaces. It delivers power through an exclusive 6-speed manual transmission with more aggressive gearing that increases torque multiplication in almost every gear for quicker acceleration. Are those comparisons important to you And do you need that performance at a semi-affordable price If so, then this is your sports car because it delivers that performance-plus legitimate super-car handling and braking and near-luxury quiet, comfort and convenience-for about 51,000, a price unmatched by anything comparable on the planet. The Z06 is for sports car buffs who can't be satisfied by the standard Corvettes 350 hp and 375 lb.ft. of tire-smoking torque. You know, the ones who live in mortal fear of being blown off by the occasional 500 hp Ferrari or Viper.
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