Pratt Miller Motorsports on Tuesday shared images of the Corvette race car that will compete in the 2024 IMSA WeatherTech SportsCar championship, giving us our first look at the iconic yellow livery that will once again grace race tracks across America next year.
Although this Z06 GT3.R may appear similar to the Corvette from the 2023 season, significant changes have been made behind the scenes. The Corvette Racing factory program ended at the end of the season and will be replaced by a Pratt Miller-run program from 2024 onwards. The Z06 GT3.R will still compete in GTD Pro, and it will have a similar group of four full-time drivers: Nicky Catsburg, Antonio Garcia, Tommy Milner, and Alexander Sims.
The team, named Corvette Racing by Pratt Miller Motorsports, will still receive factory support, though it is likely that discussions between the team and Chevy will be reduced compared to previous years. It is uncertain what impact this will have on the relationship between the road and race cars as the season progresses. Like before, the Z06 GT3.R will feature a 5.5-liter naturally aspirated flat-plane-crank V-8 derived from the Z06 road car.
Mark Stielow, GM Motorsports Engineering Competition director, said earlier this year, “The Corvette Z06 GT3.R breaks new ground for Chevrolet and the Corvette Racing program. This customer-focused race car leverages learnings from throughout Corvette Racing’s lengthy and successful history, plus the expertise of our Corvette production design, engineering and powertrain teams.”
The new Z06 GT3.R will make its racing debut at the 2024 Rolex 24 At Daytona, IMSA’s season-opening event.
The fourth-generation Chevrolet Corvette – or simply C4 to fans – was in production from 1984 to 1996 model years. This video from Retro Cars Forever compares two of the more potent variants of this model: the ZR-1 and the ’96 example with the LT4 engine.
The ZR-1, unlike the modern iterations, was a high-tech machine for its era. General Motors controlled Lotus at the time and contracted the British team to create a V8 for this range-topping model. The result was a 5.7-liter V8 with dual camshafts for each bank of cylinders – a significant change from the pushrod-equipped, overhead-valve layout available from other ‘Vette engines.
The Lotus-tuned V8 made 375 horsepower at introduction and 405 hp after the 1993 model. Plus, the mill had a redline at 7,200 rpm. To put that spec into perspective, the 3.4-liter V8 in the Ferrari 348, available around the same as the ZR1, made 320 hp at 7,200 revs.
The road-going C4 always used a 5.7-liter V8, but Chevy improved it several times during the production run. The 1996 model was the finale for the fourth-gen ‘Vette, but the Bowtie decided to introduce the new LT4 engine as an option. It made 330 hp, according to the factory specs. In the video, host Brad Hansen notes this output is possibly lower than the actual figure, with dynos putting the number between 350 and 360 hp.
Retro Cars Forever does real-world 0-60-mph acceleration runs in both cars with two passengers inside. The LT4-equipped C4 tallies a best time of 6.78 seconds. The ZR-1’s top sprint takes 6.46 seconds.
The LT4 comes out on top as a car you would drive regularly. This engine is an evolution of the venerable Chevy small-black V8, making repairs easier than the ZR-1’s more exotic engine.
Plus, the ZR-1 features unique bodywork, like doors that flare outward to the wider fenders. In the event of damage, it will be more complicated to find replacement parts than for a C4, which has a more common exterior.
So, which one should you get? The video leaves that up to the individual. In their current condition, both of these Corvettes are worth around $25,000. However, the later, more powerful ZR-1s command more, and the LT4-equipped Grand Sport also goes for a premium. Meanwhile, folks with more modest budgets can check out the earlier, lower-output examples that are less expensive, judging by a report from Hagerty Insurance.
By far the biggest mystery surrounding the hotly anticipated Corvette ZR1 is the type of engine Chevrolet’s engineers intend to install. In late October, an eagle-eyed person with access to the GM Parts Catalog stumbled upon an LT7 listed as a turbocharged eight-cylinder mill with a 5.5-liter displacement. Well, that’s no longer the case because the database has been updated to show an entirely different LT7, one that GM had back in the 1980s.
Discovered by a member of the Corvette Forum, the LT7 now appears as a 4.3-liter V6 diesel. Coincidentally, or perhaps not, there was an oil-burner with this displacement between the 1982 to 1985 model years. Engineered for front-wheel-drive cars, this diesel enabled the 1983 Oldsmobile Cutlass Ciera to return 28 miles per gallon in the city and 41 mpg on the highway for a combined 33 mpg. It was also offered in the Buick Century, Chevrolet Celebrity, and the Pontiac 6000 during the same model years.
However, we’d reckon 85 horsepower and 165 pound-feet of torque wouldn’t be enough for the Corvette ZR1. But why is the Corvette now listed as having a diesel V6 instead of a gas V8? Well, to show GM has a sense of humor is one logical explanation. The cat is probably out of the bag anyway, so why not do some damage control by replacing the true identity of the new LT7 and have fun along the way?
Many would argue a diesel has no place in a mid-engine supercar, although Audi would beg to differ with its R8 V12 TDI concept. A diesel would make more sense in the long-rumored Corvette SUV but in the age of electrification, a high-riding ‘Vette would have a gas engine assisted by an electric motor to deliver the necessary low-end torque.
Diesel engines have largely fallen out of favor anyway in the wake of the Volkswagen Group’s messy Dieselgate scandal. There are more chances of seeing the rumored twin-turbo hybrid Zora than a diesel Corvette, which would surely upset purists more than the E-Ray or the already confirmed fully electric model.
Hennessey Performance, known for its modifications on various cars, is considering offering upgrades for the Chevrolet Corvette Z06. In a recent video, the company tested the Z06 on a dyno to determine its power output.
According to Hennessey’s dyno, the Z06 generates 600.36 horsepower at 8,340 rpm and 406.55 pound-feet at 6,730 rpm. In contrast, the stock version of the Z06 produces 670 hp at 8,400 rpm and 460 lb-ft at 6,300 rpm.
Update: Added 21 additional spy photos to a new photo gallery showing C8 Corvette ZR1 prototypes in action at the Nurburgring.
The next-generation Chevrolet Corvette in ZR1 trim hasn’t exactly been a secret so far. We’ve already seen several heavily camouflaged prototypes testing in different locations around the United States. However, it seems that the automaker is now moving the development to the Old Continent. At least two different prototypes were recently caught testing on the famous Nurburgring race track.
Buyers who have ordered a 2023 Corvette Z06 are experiencing delays in receiving their cars. These delays are a result of ongoing production challenges caused by parts shortages. Despite the completion of the first year of production, customers who placed orders for a 2023 Z06 are finding that their vehicles are stuck in limbo, indicating that the cars have been built but do not have a scheduled delivery date yet.
CorvetteBlogger.com reports that there are hundreds of 2023 Corvette Z06 cars waiting for parts in a lot outside the Bowling Green assembly plant. This means that many buyers have their vehicles stuck at production code 3800, which signifies that the cars are built but are awaiting shipment. With the recent UAW strike further complicating matters, concerns have grown about the extended wait for this high-performance version of the sportscar.
When you think of sporty V-8s, the Chevrolet Corvette, Ford Mustang, and Chevrolet Camaro instantly come to mind. These cars are often the first choice for anyone looking for a V-8 powered car, and for good reason. They offer excellent performance, have powerful V-8 engines, and are iconic in pop culture.
However, if you are looking for something more exclusive and unique, there are plenty of other V-8 sports cars that often go overlooked. These cars range from European sport sedans to underrated sports car icons and sleeper cars. Here are 10 V-8 sports cars that you may have overlooked but definitely shouldn’t.
We have compiled this list of underrated V-8 sports cars by consulting specialist sites like Edmunds, Car and Driver, and Motor Trend.
The 2003 Jaguar S-Type R was designed to compete with the Mercedes E55 AMG and the BMW M5. It had a powerful engine that offered impressive acceleration. Although it wasn’t as quick as its German rivals, the S-Type R provided exceptional track performance while still maintaining a comfortable ride.
Specifications
Engine
Supercharged 4.2-liter V-8
Engine Output
390 horsepower and 408 pound-feet
Transmission
Six-speed automatic
Drivetrain
RWD
0-60 MPH
5.3 seconds
Top Speed
155 MPH (Electronically limited)
What set the Jag apart was its suspension, which offered improved cornering and performance without sacrificing comfort.
92003 Mercedes-Benz CLK55 AMG
Top Speed 155 MPH
Mercedes
The 2003 Mercedes-Benz CLK55 AMG was powered by a 5.5-liter V-8 engine producing 362 horsepower. It offered impressive performance and was considered one of the most gorgeous cars of the early 2000s.
Specifications
Engine
5.5-liter V-8
Engine Output
362 horsepower and 376 pound-feet
Transmission
Five-speed shiftable automatic
Drivetrain
RWD
0-60 MPH
4.9 seconds
Top Speed
155 MPH (Electronically limited)
It featured advanced driver-assistance technologies and a stunning design that made it a worthy competitor to its German counterparts.
82011 BMW 550i
Top Speed 155 MPH
BMW
The 2011 BMW 550i was equipped with a powerful twin-turbo 4.4-liter V-8 engine. It offered impressive performance and came with a host of standard equipment. It was a great option for those looking for a powerful and well-equipped sports sedan.
Specifications
Engine
Twin-turbocharged 4.4-liter V-8
Engine Output
400 horsepower and 450 pound-feet
Transmission
Six-speed manual or eight-speed automatic
Drivetrain
RWD
0-60 MPH
5.1 seconds
Top Speed
155 MPH (Electronically limited)
It offered optional extras that enhanced its performance and styling, making it a great choice for enthusiasts.
The 2002 Pontiac Firebird Trans Am was equipped with a powerful 5.7-liter V-8 engine producing 310 horsepower. It offered strong performance and had a distinct and iconic design.
Specifications
Engine
5.7-liter V-8
Engine Output
310 horsepower and 340 pound-feet
Transmission
Four-speed automatic or six-speed manual
Drivetrain
RWD
0-60 MPH
5.0 seconds
Top Speed
160 MPH (Electronically limited)
It was known for its performance and had a unique and iconic design.
The 2014 Lexus IS F featured a 5.0-liter V-8 engine producing 416 horsepower. It offered impressive performance and had a unique and aggressive design.
Specifications
Engine
5.0-liter V-8
Engine Output
416 horsepower and 371 pound-feet
Transmission
Eight-speed shiftable automatic
Drivetrain
RWD
0-60 MPH
4.6 seconds
Top Speed
170 MPH
It offered impressive performance and a striking design, making it a standout option in the sports car market.
52006 Maserati Coupe
Top Speed 177 MPH
Maserati
The 2006 Maserati Coupe was a stunning machine. It featured a Ferrari-made V-8 engine and had a striking design that made it a worthy competitor to its German rivals.
Specifications
Engine
4.2-liter V-8
Engine Output
390 horsepower and 333 pound-feet
Transmission
Six-speed manual
Drivetrain
RWD
0-60 MPH
4.8 seconds
Top Speed
177 MPH
It combined Italian styling and horsepower with a responsive transmission and adaptive suspension.
The 2006 Pontiac GTO was powered by a 6.0-liter V-8 engine producing 400 horsepower. It offered impressive performance and was often compared to much more expensive vehicles.
Specifications
Engine
6.0-liter V-8
Engine Output
400 horsepower and 400 pound-feet
Transmission
Four-speed automatic or six-speed manual
Drivetrain
RWD
0-60 MPH
4.7 seconds
Top Speed
178 MPH
It offered impressive performance and had a unique and distinct design.
32017 Chevrolet SS
Top Speed 180 MPH
Chevrolet
The 2017 Chevrolet SS was a performance sedan that offered impressive power and a sleeper car design. It was powered by a supercharged 6.2-liter V-8 engine, delivering a whopping 415 horsepower.
Specifications
Engine
6.2-liter V-8
Engine Output
415 horsepower and 415 pound-feet
Transmission
Six-speed manual or six-speed automatic
Drivetrain
RWD
0-60 MPH
4.7 seconds
Top Speed
180 MPH
It was a perfect blend of power and luxury, offering a thrilling ride experience.
The Chevrolet Corvette Z06 is known for its powerful engine and impressive performance. While it may not have the traditional rumble of a small-block V8, its flat-plane-crank V8 engine offers a smooth and consistent idle. However, when you step on the accelerator, you’ll experience the immediate response and high-revving capability that make the LT6 engine stand out. The Z06’s performance becomes more dramatic as the revs increase, especially above 4000rpm.
The engine delivers power in a linear and progressive manner. When driven at higher speeds and revs, it gains an extra surge of power. Although not as dramatic as a Honda VTEC kick, this characteristic is still noticeable and adds to the driving experience.
As the engine approaches its redline at 8600rpm, it unleashes a thrilling metallic sound that rivals the exhaust notes of top European sports cars. In terms of acceleration, the Z06 performs exceptionally well. With warm Cup 2 R tires and optimal grip, it can reach 60mph from a standstill in just 3.1 seconds, 100mph in 6.8 seconds, and complete a quarter-mile in 11.2 seconds. These figures surpass those of a Porsche 911 GT3 PDK but may be outperformed by turbocharged or hybrid-powered rivals like the Porsche 911 Turbo S, McLaren 720S, or Ferrari 296 GTB.
On normal roads, the Z06 offers various driving modes that can be adjusted to suit different preferences and conditions. While some testers may find the selection overwhelming, it doesn’t cause major issues. The carbon brakes provide manageable bite and progression, and the dual-clutch gearbox delivers quick and precise shifts. However, it’s the V8 engine that truly shines, with its impressive power, responsiveness, sharpness, and mechanical charm.
While the Chevrolet Corvette Z06 excels on wide and fast circuits like Silverstone or Laguna Seca, it still demonstrates impressive pace and handling precision on the tighter bends of the Millbrook Alpine Hill Route. Its stiff chassis provides excellent stability, allowing for precise turn-ins and maintaining grip even at high speeds. The dampers work effectively, distributing the load evenly on the tires, and the electronic stability aids offer confidence when accelerating out of corners.
When the stability aids are turned off, the Z06’s rear axle, equipped with 13-inch-wide tires, can be provoked into predictable oversteer. Controlling the car may require quick reflexes, but it remains manageable and predictable at its limits.
The 2023 Chevrolet Corvette Z06 Convertible is a formidable sports car that has impressed drivers with its powerful performance and thrilling driving experience. It has established itself as a top competitor in the market, offering tremendous power, agile handling, and a competitive price point. With the optional track-oriented Z07 package, it can even perform exceptionally well on the racetrack.
Many consider the Z06 to be the best Corvette ever made, with its exceptional sound, handling, and desirability. The convertible version takes the driving experience to a new level by providing direct access to the LT6 engine’s incredible roar while matching the coupe’s performance on twisty roads and straight-line acceleration.
Under the hood of the Z06 Convertible is a 5.5-liter V8 engine with a flat-plane crankshaft. This naturally aspirated engine produces an impressive 670 horsepower and 460 pound-feet of torque, allowing the car to rev up to an exhilarating 8,600 rpm. The engine’s unique exhaust note adds to the overall excitement of driving the Z06.
The Z06 Convertible delivers excellent performance, achieving a 0-60 mph time of around 2.7 seconds. Despite its convertible design and a slightly higher weight compared to the coupe, the Z06 maintains its exceptional performance without any noticeable drawbacks.
On the road, the Z06 handles superbly, staying flat in corners and exhibiting minimal understeer. The car’s suspension, equipped with magnetic ride control, provides a comfortable ride while still offering impressive handling capabilities. The upgraded Brembo brakes ensure excellent stopping power and control.
The interior of the Z06 Convertible features a driver-focused design with plenty of carbon fiber accents. The 3LZ trim level offers a luxurious leather-wrapped interior with carbon-fiber GT2 seats and a carbon-fiber steering wheel. The cabin is spacious enough to accommodate tall passengers comfortably.
Despite its impressive performance and premium features, the Z06 Convertible remains a value proposition compared to its competitors. With a starting price of $113,895, it offers a significantly lower price point than comparable supercars.
In conclusion, the 2023 Chevrolet Corvette Z06 Convertible is a phenomenal sports car that delivers thrilling performance and an unforgettable driving experience. It combines power, handling, and luxury at a price that its competitors can’t match. Whether on the track or the open road, the Z06 Convertible is a standout car that impresses in every aspect.
When it comes to high-performance sports cars, the Chevrolet Corvette has always been a top contender. With its sleek design, powerful engine, and thrilling performance, the Corvette has captured the hearts of car enthusiasts all over the world. In 2022, MacMulkin Chevrolet proudly took the title of the world’s largest Corvette dealer, showcasing their unparalleled dedication to the Corvette community.
The success of MacMulkin Chevrolet can be attributed to their commitment to their customers and the broader Corvette community. The dealership’s Corvette Team works tirelessly to ensure that every customer finds the perfect Corvette to match their needs and desires. This personalized approach to customer service has helped establish MacMulkin Chevrolet as a trusted partner for Corvette enthusiasts.
One of the things that sets MacMulkin Chevrolet apart is their comprehensive approach to the customer journey. For those who are ordering a new Corvette, the dealership provides a seamless and guided experience. Once an order is placed and accepted by General Motors (GM), customers can easily track the progress of their order through MacMulkin Chevrolet’s Corvette Order – Waitlist Tracking page. This transparency and communication ensure that customers are always informed about the status of their new vehicle.
For customers who are looking to purchase an in-stock Corvette, MacMulkin Chevrolet has streamlined the sales process to be as quick and easy as possible. From handling the paperwork to coordinating the delivery process, the dealership’s team ensures a smooth and hassle-free experience. This dedication to customer satisfaction has played a significant role in securing MacMulkin Chevrolet’s position as the world’s largest Corvette dealer in 2022.
At MacMulkin Chevrolet, buying a Corvette is more than just a transaction—it’s an invitation to join a community. When you buy a Corvette from MacMulkin Chevrolet, you become a member of their Corvette family, rather than just another Corvette owner. This sense of community and shared passion for Corvettes is at the core of MacMulkin Chevrolet’s business approach.
As the world’s largest Corvette dealer, MacMulkin Chevrolet offers a wide range of Corvette models, including the C8 Corvette Stingray, E-RAY, and Z06. Whether you’re interested in the timeless appeal of the Stingray, the eco-friendly performance of the E-RAY, or the raw power of the Z06, MacMulkin Chevrolet is the ultimate destination for all things Corvette.
The fact that MacMulkin Chevrolet holds the title of the world’s largest Corvette dealer in 2022 is a testament to their commitment to customer service, community, and the Chevrolet Corvette. Whether you’re a longtime Corvette enthusiast or new to the world of sports cars, MacMulkin Chevrolet offers a buying experience that is truly unmatched.
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