April 16th, 2021 Chris Phillip

On March 5, 2018 production of the 2019 C7 ZR1 began at the Bowling Green Assembly Plant. This is the fourth time this option code has become available in the Corvette lineup. The first ZR1 was offered from 1970 to 1972 and 53 were sold. It was built for racing and was unavailable with any comfort options. The next ZR-1 was produced from 1990-1995 and it was powered by a 375-405 HP LT-5 dual overhead cam engine. A total of 6,922 were sold. In 2009 the ZR1 reentered the Corvette lineup with a 638 HP supercharged LS9 engine. Production ended in 2013 after 4,684 were sold.

The 2019 C7 ZR1 is filled with lessons learned from the current Z06. It uses a larger R2650 (2.5 liter) supercharger compared to the smaller R1740 (1.7 liter) unit in the Z06. Temperature control was a critical objective during ZR1 development, it has ten coolers to tame the beast. The engine produces 755 HP at 6,300 RPM and 710 lb-ft of torque at 4,400 RPM. GM quotes 0-60 in 2.85, 0-100 in 6.0 and 10.6 ¼ mile times. Top speed for the standard low wing non aero option is 212 MPH. When fitted with the ZTK performance package the aggressive aero reduces top speed to a little above 200 MPH. The larger supercharger is 73 mm higher than the LT4 Z06. GM found a unique solution to package this larger unit. The hood receives a large cutout and when opened it reveals a carbon fiber panel bolted to the supercharger. Cool air is routed over this cover to reduce supercharger heat.

The ZR1 is available in coupe and convertible with two trim levels (1ZR and 3ZR). The 1ZR coupe is priced at $119,995 and convertible is $129,995. The 3ZR coupe is $123,995 and convertible is $133,995. The ZTK performance package is an option (coupe or convertible) and priced at $2,995. This includes, a high downforce wing, front splitter and other performance upgrades. Finally, the ZLZ Sebring Orange design package is $6,995 and includes the 3LZ/ZTK packages and features special paint and interior trim.

Story by Walt Thurn