Corvette Blog

This is a fun ZR1 Tracktest video, albeit in another language, but still interesting to watch...

Posted By Ryan In 2009 Corvette ZR1 , Corvette Videos | 1 Comments Permalink

Well, Motor Trend was at it again. The gang teamed up with pro-racer Randy Pobst to put together a list of the hottest performance cars on the market. The winner was given the title: “Best Driver’s Car”.

The vehicles’ rankings were based off ALOT of material, 18 pages to be exact. To summarize, the collected data included a combination of speed, braking performance, acceleration data and pure subjective “in the seat” driver’s experience.

And here are the results:

• #10 Chevy Camaro SS
• #09 BMW 135i
• #08 Jaguar XFR
• #07 Nissan 370Z Nismo
• #06 Chevrolet Corvette ZR1
• #05 Ford Shelby Mustang GT500
• #04 Cadillac CTS-V
• #03 Mazda MX-5 Miata
• #02 Audi R8
• #01 Porsche Cayman S

What are they thinking?  Do YOU agree with this top 10? We would like to hear your opinion. Blog with us.

[ Motor Trend ]

Posted By Ryan In 2009 Corvette ZR1 , Corvette News , Corvette Recognition , Corvette Reviews | 4 Comments Permalink

Today Chevrolet announced a Customer Satisfaction Program on selected 2009 Corvette ZR1.  A Customer Satisfaction Program is not a full fledged recall, but more so a program to alert customers of a possible issue.  Here are the details:

Certain 2009 model year Chevrolet Corvette ZR1 vehicles may have a condition in which the clutch damper spring may fracture.  If this were to occur, the driver may or may not notice gear rattle and/or the transmission may be hard to shift.  If the vehicle is driven with a fractured clutch damper spring, it could result in damage to the transmission.

The VIN breakpoints (last 8 digits) that are included in this program are: 95800667 through 95801069.  Not all vehicles within these breakpoints may be involved, your GM dealership will check their computer system to see if your vehicle is involved.

Your GM dealership will replace the clutch assembly FREE of charge.  Additionally, courtesy transportation is available for those customers involved.  Letters will be sent to known owners of record located within areas covered by the US National Traffic and Motor Vehicle Safety Act.

If you have any questions, you can always call us at CorvetteBlog direct at (888) 875-0728.

Posted By Ryan In 2009 Corvette ZR1 , Corvette News , Corvette Parts , Corvette Safety , Corvette Service | 0 Comments Permalink

We can't think of a better way to celebrate Independence Day than with a fun Corvette video.  The 2009 Corvette ZR1 has a tradition of blowing away all competition on wheels. So, Motortrend decided to arrange a more interesting battle….

Corvette ZR1
(638-horsepower, reach 60 mph in 3.3 seconds)

VS.

Blue Angel F/A-18 Hornet
(1.8 mach, 32,000 lbs. of thrust)

You be the judge on whether this race is fair or not. Personally, we are more interested in who will make it to the mile mark first.  Click on the video link below to view for yourself (race begins 8 minutes in)! Enjoy!

[ Motor Trend Video ]

Posted By Ryan In 2009 Corvette ZR1 , Corvette Fun , Corvette News , Corvette Performance , Corvette Videos | 1 Comments Permalink

We recently had yet another 2009 Corvette ZR1 delivered to one of our own CorvetteBlog readers.  All of us at CorvetteBlog and George Matick Chevrolet are so proud to be part of your day and honored that you come back again and again to find out the latest on everything Corvette from us!

Enjoy this set of pictures as our most recent Corvette ZR1 delivery is unloaded on our south lot.  More pictures after the jump.

Posted By Ryan In 2009 Corvette ZR1 , Corvette Dealers , Corvette Pictures | 2 Comments Permalink

The single, specially built 2009 Hero Edition Corvette ZR1 ever manufactured is currently being held within a drawing to benefit the Kids Wish Network.  The tickets are only $3 and you can make a big difference for the Kids and for you, after winning a ZR1!

Though no changes have been made to the vehicle’s drive train, “additional carbon fiber components” have been mentioned throughout the ZR1’s body. Additional graphics in red shine also help to accentuate the vehicle’s black paint.

Tickets are currently on sale, and will continue to sell throughout the year. There’s no limit on the number of purchased tickets, so purchase away! Donate to a good cause.

Future vehicles donated to benefit the Kids Wish Network include a fully restored, black with red highlighted1967 Corvette. Interested? Maybe if I include the fact that the ’67 Corvette comes with a 427 cubic inch Big Block V8 engine with 390 horsepower, your interest will peak?

Get your ‘Vette tickets today. Click here. Donate to a good cause! And help the Kids!

See a larger picture of the 2009 Corvette ZR1 Hero Edition after the jump.

Posted By Ryan In 2009 Corvette ZR1 , Corvette Equipment , Corvette Fun , Corvette News | 0 Comments Permalink

As always, we at CorvetteBlog have the latest constraint information straight from General Motors.  Again this week's update is pretty simple because there are no constraints.  That said, there is no Corvette allocation for dealers this week, so no orders will be placed.  Look for an update next week here on CorvetteBlog on the upcoming allocation.

Posted By Ryan In 2009 Corvette Ordering , 2009 Corvette ZR1 , Buying a Corvette , Corvette Equipment , Corvette News , Corvette Production | 0 Comments Permalink

Purchasing and owning a Corvette ZR1 gives you the automatic privilege of taking your gorgeous ride out for high-speed cruises often so all can view you in your prize vehicle.

One Texan man did just that, though the cruise did not end in his favor. Instead, the accident resorted him to auctioning off his precious ZR1 on eBay. Apparently the accident caused havoc to the driver’s rear side and rear bumper. The rest of the damages seem rather minimal. The structural damage and suspension repairs can easily be fixed and replaced, with proper funding of course.

Bid now for this bruised (though fixable) Cyber Gray ZR1 on eBay. With only a bare 1,200 miles clocked, she can be yours for only $97,500! Any takers?

[ AutoBlog ]

Posted By Ryan In 2009 Corvette ZR1 , Corvette News , Corvettes for Sale | 0 Comments Permalink

Rumor has sprung. A Corvette body-style switchover will be made at the GT2 class in the American Le Mans (ALMS). The new body of the Corvette C6.R GT2 will offer more of a resemblance to that of the Corvette ZR1.

Competition for Chevrolet remains fierce among the Porsches, Dodge Vipers, Ford GTs, and BMW M3s. There are high hopes that the new ZR1 body-style may be just the appropriate means to dominate the competition.

Take a look at the photo. You will notice a modified front grille, new bottom diffusers, and a larger spoiler off the back. The current 6.0-liter LS7 engine will soon be replaced in 2010 by a 5.5-liter LS3 engine producing up to 500 horsepower!

Do you think this ZR1-styled Corvette C6.R GT2 has what it takes to dominate ALMS?

[ AutoBlog ]

Posted By Ryan In 2009 Corvette ZR1 , Corvette Fun , Corvette News , Corvette Racing | 0 Comments Permalink

GM announed that they were planning to reduce production to align with market demand, meaning that many assembly plants will be ideled in the coming weeks so that inventory can catch up with demand.  We've just learned that the Bowling Green Assembly Plant, home to the Corvette, will be one of the most severly impacted plants that GM has.

The plant will be down 9 weeks.  The downtime weeks are as follows:  5/4, 5/11, 6/1, 6/8, 6/29, 7/6, 7/13, 8/3, 8/10.  These new operating plans have also revised the buildout and startup schedules for the 2009 and 2010 Corvettes.

The new revised buildout for the last 2009 Corvettes will be July 28th, 2009.  The new revised startup for the 2010 Corvettes will be July 29th, 2009.

Keep checking CorvetteBlog.com for any updates related to the Bowling Green Assembly Plant.

Posted By Ryan In 2009 Corvette Ordering , 2009 Corvette ZR1 , 2010 Corvette , Buying a Corvette , Corvette Dealers , Corvette Equipment , Corvette Museum , Corvette News , Corvette Production | 1 Comments Permalink

As always, we at CorvetteBlog have the latest constraint information straight from General Motors.

• 2009 Corvettes:  There is only 1 constraint to report this week.  74U Victory Red is now built out, so no additional Corvette orders will be taken with that exterior color.
   
• 2009 Corvette Z06:  There is the same constraint to report.  74U Victory Red is now built out, so no additional Corvette orders will be taken with that exterior color.

• 2009 Corvette ZR1:  Again, just 74U Victory Red is unavailable.

If you're looking to order a new 2009 Corvette or Z06, we have allocation available this week, custom order yours now!  Let us know by leaving a comment (kept private) or by giving us a call at (888) 875-0728.  Join the many other satisfied CorvetteBlog customers and see how easy it is to do business with us.

Posted By Ryan In 2009 Corvette Ordering , 2009 Corvette ZR1 , Buying a Corvette , Corvette Equipment , Corvette News , Corvette Production | 0 Comments Permalink

And so it was announced…The infamous LS9 engine now comes as a crate motor!

This revelation was announced at the 2008 Specialty Equipment Market Association Show, better known as SEMA. Every year the Las Vegas SEMA Show is infamous for showcasing high numbers of quality automotive specialty products, both new and improved.

This LS9 engine announcement is so new that it is not even recognized as an available purchase on the GM Performance Parts website yet. But, I do wonder how many individuals would be willing to make such a purchase… A $21,000 purchase! Such a sticker price comes with the notion that this supercharged engine can potentially produce 630 horsepower! You can never have enough horsepower, but do you think the price for it in LS9 form is much too costly?

What do you think? We want to hear from you!  Also, you can click here for a detailed gallery of the engine and its components, a lot of fun to look through.

[ Vette Magazine ]

Posted By Ryan In 2009 Corvette ZR1 , Corvette Equipment , Corvette News , Corvette Parts | 0 Comments Permalink

As always, we at CorvetteBlog have the latest constraint information straight from General Motors.

• 2009 Corvettes:  There is only 1 constraint to report this week.  74U Victory Red is now built out, so no additional Corvette orders will be taken with that exterior color.
   
• 2009 Corvette Z06:  There is the same constraint to report.  74U Victory Red is now built out, so no additional Corvette orders will be taken with that exterior color.

• 2009 Corvette ZR1:  Again, just 74U Victory Red is unavailable.

If you're looking to order a new 2009 Corvette or Z06, we have allocation available this week, custom order yours now!  Let us know by leaving a comment (kept private) or by giving us a call at (888) 875-0728.  Join the many other satisfied CorvetteBlog customers and see how easy it is to do business with us.

Posted By Ryan In 2009 Corvette Ordering , 2009 Corvette ZR1 , Buying a Corvette , Corvette Dealers , Corvette Equipment , Corvette News , Corvette Production | 0 Comments Permalink

As always, we at CorvetteBlog have the latest constraint information straight from General Motors.

• 2009 Corvettes:  There are only 2 constraints to report this week.  First 425 Linen Custom Leather Interior has been discontinued, so that constraint will exist until build-out.  Second, 74U Victory Red is now built out, so no additional Corvette orders will be taken with that exterior color.
   
• 2009 Corvette Z06:  There are the same 2 constraints to report.  First 425 Linen Custom Leather Interior is discontinued, so that constraint will exist until build-out as well.  Second, 74U Victory Red is now built out, so no additional Corvette orders will be taken with that exterior color.

• 2009 Corvette ZR1:  The only 2 constraints are the 425 Linen Custom Leather interior and 74U the Victory Red exterior, which are both no longer available for ordering.

If you're looking to order a new 2009 Corvette or Z06, we have allocation available this week, custom order yours now!  Let us know by leaving a comment (kept private) or by giving us a call at (888) 875-0728.  Join the many other satisfied CorvetteBlog customers and see how easy it is to do business with us.

Posted By Ryan In 2009 Corvette Ordering , 2009 Corvette ZR1 , Corvette Equipment , Corvette News , Corvette Production | 2 Comments Permalink

A recent road rally competition was administered between the Corvette ZR1, Mercedes Benz SL65 AMG Black Series, Lamborghini Murcielago LP640, and Viper SRT10. Predictions that the ZR1 would dominate this hoity-toity line of gorgeous competition were quite low. But boy was that forecast WRONG!

The ZR1 came in FIRST! The Murcielago took second, followed by the Benz SL65, and finally the Viper SRT10. Who wouldn’t want such a vehicle that performs well as an everyday ride but can compete with the world’s best, and at a lower sticker price?

The first ZR1 manufactured is labeled as a 2009 vehicle, though it originally came out at the end of last year. The lightweight carbon-fiber components make this vehicle a go fast ride. The carbon-ceramic brakes and supercharged 6.2L engine that puts out 638 horsepower makes this beautiful Corvette the most expensive of its kind.

Want one? We are now accepting deposits for 2010 models.  Call us at (888) 875-0728 or leave a comment for us (which will be kept private) and we will give you all of the details.

[ Car and Driver ]

Posted By Ryan In 2009 Corvette ZR1 , Corvette Competitors , Corvette News , Corvette Performance , Corvette Reviews | 0 Comments Permalink

The Corvettes are back in business! Just recently, General Motors has resumed production on the 2009 Corvettes, focusing their attention on the popular ZR1

The Bowling Green assembly plant, home to where these beautiful machines are built, initially shut down for the few past months in an attempt to cut costs. Since a number of GM vehicles remain at a standstill on dealership lots, why produce more? GM has also taken action and decided to reduce costs by slowing down the rate of Corvette production. Now, instead of building 18.5 Corvettes each day, only 15 are produced daily.

The focus on Corvette production has been geared toward the ZR1… and with good reason! The ZR1 has recently been chosen as one of 2009’s top ten World Performance Cars of the Year. Over 50 international journalists nominate their top performance vehicles of choice for this award. Happily, the ZR1 was one of their top favs!

2009 World Performance Car finalists:

Audi RS 6 Avant
BMW 135i Coupe / Cabriolet
Corvette ZR1
Lamborghini LP560-4 Gallardo
Mercedes-Benz C63 AMG
Mercedes-Benz SL 63 AMG
Mitsubishi Evo X / MR
Nissan GT-R
Porsche 911 Carrera
Subaru Impreza WRX STI

To find out the TOP World Performance Car of the Year, stay tuned. See which of these ten vehicle candidates get cut down to number ONE! The results will be revealed on Thursday, April 9th at the New York International Auto Show.

[ BusinessFleet.com ]

Posted By Ryan In 2009 Corvette ZR1 , Corvette News , Corvette Recognition , Corvette Reviews | 0 Comments Permalink

As always, we at CorvetteBlog have the latest constraint information straight from General Motors.

• 2009 Corvettes:  There are 3 constraints to report.  First 425 Linen Custom Leather Interior has been discontinued, so that constraint will exist until build-out.  Second, CSC the Competition Sport Package will be constrained until build starts in Spring, less than 4 weeks from now.  The GT1 Championship Edition is now showing greater than 4 weeks until we can order it.
   
• 2009 Corvette Z06:  There are the same 2 constraints to report.  First 425 Linen Custom Leather Interior is discontinued, so that constraint will exist until build-out as well.  Second, CSC the Competition Sport Package will be constrained until build starts in Spring, less than 4 weeks from now.  The GT1 Championship Edition is now showing greater than 4 weeks until we can order it.
   
• 2009 Corvette ZR1:  The only constraint is the 425 Linen Custom Leather interior which is no longer available for ordering.

If you're looking to order a new 2009 Corvette or Z06, we have allocation available this week, custom order yours now!  Let us know by leaving a comment (kept private) or by giving us a call at (888) 875-0728.  Join the many other satisfied CorvetteBlog customers and see how easy it is to do business with us.

Posted By Ryan In 2009 Corvette Ordering , 2009 Corvette ZR1 , Buying a Corvette , Corvette Equipment , Corvette News , Corvette Production | 0 Comments Permalink

As always, we at CorvetteBlog have the latest constraint information straight from General Motors.

• 2009 Corvettes:  There are 2 constraints to report.  First 425 Linen Custom Leather Interior is on constraint.  Second, CSC the Competition Sport Package is on constraint as it is still being introduced.  We expect to be able to order the CSC package in the next week or two.
   
• 2009 Corvette Z06:  There are the same 2 constraints to report.  First 425 Linen Custom Leather Interior is on constraint.  Second, CSC the Competition Sport Package is on constraint as it is still being introduced.  We expect to be able to order the CSC package in the next week or two.
   
• 2009 Corvette ZR1:  The only constraint is the 425 Linen Custom Leather interior.

If you're looking to order a new 2009 Corvette or Z06, we have allocation available this week, custom order yours now!  Let us know by leaving a comment (kept private) or by giving us a call at (888) 875-0728.  Join the many other satisfied CorvetteBlog customers and see how easy it is to do business with us.

Posted By Ryan In 2009 Corvette Ordering , 2009 Corvette ZR1 , Buying a Corvette , Corvette Equipment , Corvette Production | 0 Comments Permalink

Though shipments of the Corvette ZR1 were said to be limited to over sea countries of the Middle East, the Royal Bahraini family will be the very first to receive the gorgeous sports car. The family is famous for their notoriety and wealth within the oil business. With oil as a main source of wealth and power there, General Motors may be stupid to NOT open their doors to Middle Eastern customers who are ready and willingly able to pay the price for a brand new 2009 ZR1.

So maybe Fadi Ghosn, Chief Marketing Officer at GM Middle East, had it all wrong when he said that, “This year, a limited number of vehicles will be available in the region…” What are your thoughts? Do you think the ZR1 has the potential to grow big overseas, especially within the regions of the Middle East?

[ AutoBlog ]
 

Posted By Ryan In 2009 Corvette ZR1 , Celebrity Corvettes , Corvette News | 1 Comments Permalink

Within Nürburg, Germany lies an infamous racetrack originally built in the 1920s called the Nürburgring. The track is considered the most dangerous racecourse because of all its blind corners and uneven asphalt surfaces. The entirety of the Nürburgring consists of four separate tracks: Gesamtstrecke, Südschleife, Nordschleife, and Zielschleife. These courses all vary in length, some only 4 miles long while others span to over 15 miles in length.

Numerous areas on the track itself are deemed too dangerous for just the average driver. With prior experience behind the wheel and pure precision, it is imperative for racers to map out the Nürburgring’s default areas in order to avoid deadly accidents.

To give you a little background insight of the track, I’m going to explain three areas, which are most dangerous to even the experienced seasoned race car driver.

• Quite a large jump lies at the road spot, Quiddelbacher-Hohe to Aremberg. For instance, a Corvette ZR1 entering this jump can be at prior speeds of up to 145mph. So in order to land correctly, braking precision before the big leap is imperative.
   
• Another spot, Metzgesfeld to Wehseifen, consists of a set of multiple complicated turns. Some drivers demand speeds of less than 50mph in order to take these turns properly, not ending up off the beaten path.
   
• And close to the public road lies Brunnchen to Eiskerve, a popular spot for spectators and video newscasters to view the race. This area, however, consists of quite a tight turn and can be very dangerous, especially with bystanders standing just feet away from these racing machines.

Now in order to get the full effect of the track for yourself, jump into the passenger seat of a Corvette ZR1 as it takes on the Nürburgring track at a record-setting 7:26.4!  Watch the video after the jump.

[ Jalopnik ]

Posted By Ryan In 2009 Corvette ZR1 , Corvette News , Corvette Performance | 2 Comments Permalink

As always, we at CorvetteBlog have the latest constraint information straight from General Motors.

Corvettes ordered this week have a Target Production Period (TPP) of the week of February 16-22, 2009.

• 2009 Corvettes:  There are 2 constraints to report.  First 425 Linen Custom Leather Interior is on constraint.  Second, CSC the Competition Sport Package is on constraint as it is still being introduced.  We expect to be able to order the CSC package in the coming weeks.
   
• 2009 Corvette Z06:  There are the same 2 constraints to report.  First 425 Linen Custom Leather Interior is on constraint.  Second, CSC the Competition Sport Package is on constraint as it is still being introduced.  We expect to be able to order the CSC package in the coming weeks.
   
• 2009 Corvette ZR1:  The only constraint is the 425 Linen Custom Leather interior.

If you're looking to order a new 2009 Corvette or Z06, we have allocation available this week, custom order yours now!  Let us know by leaving a comment (kept private) or by giving us a call at (888) 875-0728.  Join the many other satisfied CorvetteBlog customers and see how easy it is to do business with us.

Posted By Ryan In 2009 Corvette Ordering , 2009 Corvette ZR1 , Corvette Equipment , Corvette News , Corvette Production | 0 Comments Permalink

Blogging online allows for opinions to be heard on a broad scale, from the good, the bad, and from the ugly. The Corvette ZR1 is often glorified on this site, being that it is a Chevrolet Corvette dealership blog site! However, the ZR1 recently heard the wrath of a Motor Trend blogger, Arthur.

Though Arthur writes about his distasteful appetite for the ZR1, he does begin the blog by mentioning that the ZR1 proved to be an unbeatable fast car, having destroyed recent competition, which included the Ferrari 599 GTB, the Porsche GT2, and the Nissan GT-R. Check out the video for yourself!

Now even though the ZR1’s performance blatantly surpassed the other elite sport cars, this critic continues to bash the GM manufactured vehicle. He says, “It’s not without cause that the Ferrari and the Porsche command such kingly sums-especially in comparison with the brash bolide from Bowling Green. The driving experience they offer is simply unmatched by the ZR1.” Really Arthur?

Complaints about the ZR1’s obnoxiously loud engine, glue factory smelling cockpit, and full-bore V8 engine continues to ensue throughout the article. All options aside, wouldn’t you rather purchase a less expensive, American-made vehicle that carries more speed than a haughty-toity European super car?? Which would you prefer?

[ MotorTrend ]

Posted By Ryan In 2009 Corvette ZR1 , Corvette Competitors , Corvette News , Corvette Reviews | 0 Comments Permalink

Jeremy Clarkson, an English journalist and broadcaster, is not afraid to speak his mind, which is often the public’s opinion too. With his specialty on motor vehicles, he is famous for his entertaining television show, Top Gear, as well as his witty weekly columns within the Sunday Times and The Sun.

This motor critic usually despises anything American made. However, he just recently broadcasted, “out of nowhere, my car of the year” is the Corvette ZR1! Though Clarkson thinks “it’s not built very well” and costs too much, he finds the vehicle “both docile and extraordinarily savage” as well as a great deal performance-wise.

He compares the generations of Corvettes in previous years to McDonald’s Big Mac. It’s “cheap, plastic and at the right time, and in the right place, sort of just what you want.” General Motors has indeed come quite a way with their development of the ZR1 beast. Though Clarkson sees the vehicle as an epic car, the current state of the automotive industry will likely affect Corvette’s production. Clarkson states, “I’m only sad that unless the health care and pensions company that makes it [Corvette ZR1] can be turned around, it will be the last of the breed.”

[ Times Online ]

Posted By Ryan In 2009 Corvette ZR1 , Corvette News , Corvette Recognition | 2 Comments Permalink

Barrett-Jackson is a collector car auction, which originated over 30 years ago. It has come to be known worldwide as “The Greatest Car Show on Earth.” People from all over the world come to Scottsdale, Arizona to bid on collector cars, some of which are so vintage that only limited quantities were ever produced. In recent years, the automobile auction has opened its doors, and has begun to auction off boats, rock and roll collector items, and other timeless material.

The auction this year is set to begin on Sunday, January 11th and last an entire week until January 18th. Along with the numerous vehicles that are set to roll on and off the auction block, General Motors has included a 2009 Corvette ZR1 chassis to the list. This semi-constructed GM vehicle does not include any certificate of title nor any licensing agreements. The chassis comes only with a guaranteed bill of sale, and is not to be driven on public streets!

It sounds a bit rare to be buying a chassis of a vehicle; however, two other chassis will also be auctioned off. They include a 2004 GM Kappa chassis which outlines the Pontiac Solstice and the Saturn Sky, as well as a 1931 Oldsmobile chassis.

With the week of Barrett-Jackson quickly approaching, be sure to check out the complete listing of vehicles which will appear that week. You can do so by clicking below. And, if you just so happen to be interested in purchasing a chassis… the Corvette ZR1 is your BEST option by far!

UPDATE:  Unfortunately we've been notified that the auction has been canceled by Barrett Jackson.  If any updates become available, we'll let you know!

[ Barrett-Jackson ]

Posted By Ryan In 2009 Corvette ZR1 , Corvette Fun , Corvette News | 0 Comments Permalink

Each year Automobile Magazine announces their All-Star lineup of innovative new vehicles within their February edition. The ten vehicles that are chosen are not necessarily the ten most expensive or best looking vehicles. Instead, the rankings are based on total customer satisfaction – performance, navigation control, design, enjoyment, and so forth. Basically, these cars represent the type of vehicle that YOU would want within your own garage!

It’s interesting to note that one-third of the list includes vehicles manufactured in Detroit, MI. The listing of all-star vehicles includes:

1. Audi R8
2. BMW 3-series
3. Chevrolet Corvette ZR1
4. Chevrolet Malibu
5. Ford Flex
6. Honda Fit
7. Jaguar XF
8. Porsche 911
9. Mercedes-Benz C63 AMG
10. Volkswagen GTI

To hold a slot on this list provides positive PR for the vehicle’s manufacturers indeed. However, in today’s economy and with the big-three automotive bailout looming, can a single automobile magazine help increase sales nationwide? It may be just a start toward lending a helping hand for automobile manufacturers.

Magazine sales for this February magazine edition will be available for purchase in early January 2009.  There's also a video after the jump to check out.

[ Automotive.com ]

Posted By Ryan In 2009 Corvette ZR1 , Corvette Reviews | 0 Comments Permalink

Late-night comedian and car collector extraordinaire Jay Leno recently purchased his newest automobile baby… the 2009 Chevrolet Corvette ZR1! Leno claims to be a huge fan of all Corvette models. In fact, he has a portion of his garage solely dedicated to the Corvette! It is no surprise that he is proud to now own the most powerful vehicle manufactured by General Motors.

His new hot looking ride is coated in the new gray color coat protected over with a clear coat. The clear coating helps protect the paint from bleaching or cracking of the carbon fibers from the sun’s rays. This clear coat is estimated to cost nearly $60,000 per gallon! Wow!

Within the video link below, Leno gives a quick walk-around of the vehicle for all to view. It’s quite impressive to hear him explicitly point out every square inch of the vehicle, both outside and inside. Imagine the knowledge he carries with him over all his automobile babies! He then takes viewers for a short joy ride within the new ZR1.

Watch the video after the jump. No drooling allowed!

[ Jay Leno's Garage ]

Posted By Ryan In 2009 Corvette ZR1 , Celebrity Corvettes | 1 Comments Permalink

If you’re one of the lucky individuals who put an early order in for a new Corvette ZR1, you should be pleasantly surprised with one rather soon, if not already. The vehicles have run through a successful production, and are now in the midst of being delivered to their proud owners.

With that being said, the vehicle is also being put to the test… on the DYNO! ‘Dyno’ is short for dynamometer, which is a device that measures the vehicle’s mechanical force and how it balances throughout the body. With two separate Corvette ZR1s put up on the testing block, the vehicles averaged an output of 535 horsepower. With the 15% drive train loss configured into this amount because of the vehicle’s rear-wheel drive, this horsepower number actually correlates to 638!

The ZR1’s largest competitor, at this time, claims to be the Nissan GT-R. However, the GT-R only averaged at about 420 horsepower on the dyno. Dare to say a competitor? Do you feel as if the ZR1 and GT-R are relatively close in performance or not even close?

[ Dragtimes.com ]

Posted By Ryan In 2009 Corvette ZR1 | 2 Comments Permalink

Keith from CorvetteBlogger reminded me that he had blogged about Mario Andretti's process of replacing his Z06 with a ZR1.  According to Keith, Mario is hoping to be the owner of car #500!

Another ZR1 buyer is Paul Teutul, Sr. of Orange County Choppers.  I hope he doesn't convert it into a cycle!  That would be some Corvette Convertible, wouldn't it?  Paul looks like he will enjoy the ZR1 just like it is, though, right?  See Paul's 2006 Z06 here, and his ZR1 past the jump.

Who are the other 350 or so who have bought them?

Posted By Bill Connell In 2009 Corvette ZR1 , Celebrity Corvettes , Corvette Enthusiasts | 1 Comments Permalink

What do all these people have in common?

Jay Leno, famous car guy and host of The Tonight Show

Racing legend Mario Andretti

James Brown, host of the NFL Today Show on CBS

Jimmie Johnson, NASCAR driver

Rick Hendrick, owner of Hendrick Motorsports

Joey Kramer, Aerosmith band member

NASCAR driver Jeff Gordon

Teri Hatcher, actress of Lois & Clark and Desperate Housewives fame

NASCAR driver Dale Earnhardt, Jr.

Ed Glazer, owner of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Manchester United

Todd Schnitt, radio host of the Schnitt Show in Florida

These are among the rich and famous who are lining up to buy their very own 2009 Corvette ZR1!  According to Corvette Quarterly, some have their rides already, while others are waiting.  Have you ordered yours yet?

Posted By Bill Connell In 2009 Corvette ZR1 , Celebrity Corvettes , Corvette Enthusiasts , Corvette Museum | 0 Comments Permalink

When you think of the new Corvette ZR1, words such as image, speed, horsepower, torque, and style come first to mind. Just recently, the well-known magazine, Car and Driver, put the vehicle through the ultimate test. Below are the listed results from this 638 horsepower ZR1 engine:

• 3.4 seconds from 0 to 60 mph
  
• 7.6 seconds from 0 to 100 mph
  
• 11.5 seconds from 0 to 128 mph (1/4 mile)

Unfortunately, the team testing the vehicle “ran out of room” and was unable to reach the vehicle’s proposed maximum speed of 205 mph. When compared to the competition on the Nurburgring lap, the ZR1 came in with a lap time of 7:26. This number surpassed the Nissan GT-R at 7:29 and the Porsche GT2 at 7:32. However, the Dodge Viper ACR triumphed above all with an astonishing lap time of 7:22.

Now onto the brakes… The ZR1 set a new Car and Driver record, decelerating to a standstill from 70 mph to nothing in just 142 feet!!

With these Car and Driver testing results, I would guess that the once “close” competition is no longer a threat! The ZR1 performed as expected, and will continue to destroy the competition through continuous vehicle improvements.  Take a look at the video after the jump.

[ Car and Driver ]

Posted By Ryan In 2009 Corvette ZR1 | 1 Comments Permalink

We have a very special announcement on the availability of a new 2009 Corvette ZR1!  The vehicle has been built and is available immediately. Here are the details:

2009 Corvette ZR1 - 3ZR Package
74U Victory Red Exterior  /  195 Ebony Interior
Options Include:
Q6B ZR1 Chrome Aluminum Wheels
 

The MSRP of the vehicle is $118,520.  We are asking $20,000 over that MSRP, giving you a pre-tax and fees total of $138,520.  We will gladly consult with you about shipping options or give you VIP service if you plan to visit us from out of state.

If you're interested in the ZR1, please call us direct at: (888) 875-0728 or reply with a comment (which will be kept private).  This is the perfect way for you to get a ZR1 without waiting, and at a very low cost over sticker compared to what many other dealers are asking.

Posted By Ryan In 2009 Corvette ZR1 , Corvettes for Sale | 0 Comments Permalink

As always, we at CorvetteBlog have the latest constraint information straight from General Motors.

This is the twenty-second week for ordering 2009 Corvettes.  Corvettes ordered this week have a Target Production Period (TPP) of the week of December 8-14, 2008.

All Corvettes this week have the R8C Museum Delivery as a constrained option.  There will be no museum delivery available to order with this week's Corvettes.

If you're looking to order a new 2009 Corvette or Z06, we have allocation available this week, custom order yours now!  Let us know by leaving a comment (kept private) or by giving us a call at (888) 875-0728.  Join the many other satisfied CorvetteBlog customers and see how easy it is to do business with us.

Posted By Ryan In 2009 Corvette Ordering , 2009 Corvette ZR1 , Corvette Equipment , Corvette News , Corvette Production | 0 Comments Permalink

Where can you find the “Fastest 60 Acres in America”? Well, located in Phoenix, Arizona is Bondurant School of High Performance Driving. This driving school allows drivers to experience intimate handling under roaring high-speeds, tight turns, and other nerve-wrecking conditions. In fact, just this month, the school added the 2009 Corvette ZR1 to the 200 other fleet vehicles!!

A Bondurant 2-day training package now comes with the purchase of a ZR1. But for those of you who are not looking to purchase a $100,000 vehicle and would rather prefer a wild adrenaline rush, training lessons at the driving school start around $3,395.

The training begins inside the seat of a regular Corvette C6 Coupe, but then progresses as you absorb the information. Eventually, they move you up into the higher-powered Z06, and then ultimately into the ZR1. The school allows participants to spend 80% of their time on the tracks, too.

For more information on the driving school and lessons, visit www.bondurant.com. Happy training!

[ Motor Trend ]

Posted By Ryan In 2009 Corvette ZR1 , Corvette Enthusiasts , Corvette News | 0 Comments Permalink

The newest, hottest ZR1 first debuted itself earlier this year. At the event, General Motors decided to also bring along the vehicle’s ancestry, the ZR-1 (notice the dash to decipher between old and new).

The ZR-1’s were originally built during a 5-year span, from 1990 to 1995. During that time, General Motors owned Lotus, a British sports car specialist company. So, as you may conclude, much of the designs of the older ZR-1 stemmed from British concepts. The LT5 V8 engine was designed specifically for the vehicle, and consisted of an all-aluminum, 32-valve V8 engine that put out 375 horsepower. Rather giant for that time era!

The ZR-1’s sold slowly and at very low numbers due to the high costs involved with its initial purchase. But all that set aside, it’s important that we still have the ZR-1 around today so GM can capture ideas and concepts from the old – promoting them to the new… the ultimate ZR1!

[ CarLust ]

Posted By Ryan In 2009 Corvette ZR1 , Corvette History | 0 Comments Permalink

As always, we at CorvetteBlog have the latest constraint information straight from General Motors.

This is the twenty-first week for ordering 2009 Corvettes.  Corvettes ordered this week have a Target Production Period (TPP) of the week of November 24-December 7, 2008.

• 2009 Corvettes:  Completely unconstrained; all options available to order.
   
• 2009 Corvette Z06:  Completely unconstrained; all options available to order.
   
• 2009 Corvette ZR1:  Completely unconstrained; all options available to order.

If you're looking to order a new 2009 Corvette or Z06, we have allocation available this week, custom order yours now!  Let us know by leaving a comment (kept private) or by giving us a call at (888) 875-0728.  Join the many other satisfied CorvetteBlog customers and see how easy it is to do business with us.

Posted By Ryan In 2009 Corvette Ordering , 2009 Corvette ZR1 , Buying a Corvette , Corvette Equipment , Corvette News , Corvette Production | 0 Comments Permalink

Many consumers view the Corvette ZR1 as an ultimate driving machine, designed and manufactured by Chevrolet. After all, it comes fully equipped with a 638 horsepower LS9 engine that can take you from 0 to 60 seconds within 3.4 seconds. The vehicle also carries relatively decent fuel economy: 14 mpg in the city and 20 mpg on the highway.

With all this great buzz on the new ZR1, what do the experts have to say?

Top Gear, an internationally recognized UK motor vehicle magazine, claimed both the good and the ugly. One of their lines claim, "Right, make no mistake. What we have here is one of the truly great supercars." It proceeds to mention that the vehicle has the highest car record for production cars on the Nürburgring. Quite an accomplishment!

However, Top Gear magazine proceeds to enter the ugly. They mention the ZR1 is not a vehicle that easily catches one's attention. Also, the ZR1's body style looks like the base of any Corvette, but yet the price of $100,000 is what makes this Corvette exclusive against the competition.

Take a look at their reviews yourself by clicking below. Is Top Gear right with what they say? How do you honestly feel about the ZR1?

[ Top Gear ]

Posted By Ryan In 2009 Corvette ZR1 , Corvette News , Corvette Reviews | 1 Comments Permalink

As always, we at CorvetteBlog have the latest constraint information straight from General Motors.

This is the twenty-first week for ordering 2009 Corvettes.  Corvettes ordered this week have a Target Production Period (TPP) of the week of November 17-23, 2008.

• 2009 Corvettes:  Completely unconstrained; all options available to order.
   
• 2009 Corvette Z06:  Completely unconstrained; all options available to order.
   
• 2009 Corvette ZR1:  Completely unconstrained; all options available to order.

If you're looking to order a new 2009 Corvette or Z06, we have allocation available this week, custom order yours now!  Let us know by leaving a comment (kept private) or by giving us a call at (888) 875-0728.  Join the many other satisfied CorvetteBlog customers and see how easy it is to do business with us.

Posted By Ryan In 2009 Corvette Ordering , 2009 Corvette ZR1 , Buying a Corvette , Corvette Equipment , Corvette News , Corvette Production | 0 Comments Permalink

As always, we at CorvetteBlog have the latest constraint information straight from General Motors.

This is the twentieth week for ordering 2009 Corvettes.  Corvettes ordered this week have a Target Production Period (TPP) of the week of November 10-16, 2008.

• 2009 Corvettes:  Completely unconstrained; all options available to order.
   
• 2009 Corvette Z06:  Completely unconstrained; all options available to order.
   
• 2009 Corvette ZR1:  Completely unconstrained; all options available to order.

If you're looking to order a new 2009 Corvette or Z06, we have allocation available this week, custom order yours now!  Let us know by leaving a comment (kept private) or by giving us a call at (888) 875-0728.  Join the many other satisfied CorvetteBlog customers and see how easy it is to do business with us.

Posted By Ryan In 2009 Corvette Ordering , 2009 Corvette ZR1 , Buying a Corvette , Corvette Equipment , Corvette News , Corvette Production | 0 Comments Permalink

As always, we at CorvetteBlog have the latest constraint information straight from General Motors.

This is the nineteenth week for ordering 2009 Corvettes.  Corvettes ordered this week have a Target Production Period (TPP) of the week of November 3-9, 2008.

• 2009 Corvettes:  Completely unconstrained; all options available to order.
   
• 2009 Corvette Z06:  Completely unconstrained; all options available to order.
   
• 2009 Corvette ZR1:  Completely unconstrained; all options available to order.

If you're looking to order a new 2009 Corvette or Z06, we have allocation available this week, custom order yours now!  Let us know by leaving a comment (kept private) or by giving us a call at (888) 875-0728.  Join the many other satisfied CorvetteBlog customers and see how easy it is to do business with us.

Posted By Ryan In 2009 Corvette Ordering , 2009 Corvette ZR1 , Buying a Corvette , Corvette Equipment , Corvette News , Corvette Production | 0 Comments Permalink

As always, we at CorvetteBlog have the latest constraint information straight from General Motors.

This is the eighteenth week for ordering 2009 Corvettes.  Corvettes ordered this week have a Target Production Period (TPP) of the week of October 27-November 2, 2008.

• 2009 Corvettes:  Completely unconstrained; all options available to order.
   
• 2009 Corvette Z06:  Completely unconstrained; all options available to order.
   
• 2009 Corvette ZR1:  Completely unconstrained; all options available to order.

If you're looking to order a new 2009 Corvette or Z06, we have allocation available this week, custom order yours now!  Let us know by leaving a comment (kept private) or by giving us a call at (888) 875-0728.  Join the many other satisfied CorvetteBlog customers and see how easy it is to do business with us.

Posted By Ryan In 2009 Corvette Ordering , 2009 Corvette ZR1 , Buying a Corvette , Corvette Equipment , Corvette News , Corvette Production | 0 Comments Permalink

As always, we at CorvetteBlog have the latest constraint information straight from General Motors.

This is the sixteenth week for ordering 2009 Corvettes.  Corvettes ordered this week have a Target Production Period (TPP) of the week of October 13-19, 2008.

• 2009 Corvettes:  Completely unconstrained; all options available to order.
   
• 2009 Corvette Z06:  Completely unconstrained; all options available to order.
   
• 2009 Corvette ZR1:  Completely unconstrained; all options available to order.

If you're looking to order a new 2009 Corvette or Z06, we have allocation available this week, custom order yours now!  Let us know by leaving a comment (kept private) or by giving us a call at (888) 875-0728.  Join the many other satisfied CorvetteBlog customers and see how easy it is to do business with us.

Posted By Ryan In 2009 Corvette Ordering , 2009 Corvette ZR1 , Buying a Corvette , Corvette Equipment , Corvette News , Corvette Production | 0 Comments Permalink

Chances are if someone can afford to buy the new 2009 Corvette ZR1, they also have the spare money to spend on some extra tires!

Well, this powerful, beautiful, go-fast vehicle, with an ability to reach 60 MPH within 3.4 seconds, was put to the test. When General Motor’s #1 burnout artist took to the wheel, he was successfully able to create two 300-foot lengths of pure burned rubber stains.

The smoke storm that staggered behind the rear tires billowed up into the clean air. The utter sound of ZR1’s hard-working 638 HP 6.2-liter LS9 engine also added to the ultimate excitement. Without going into any more detail, make sure you check out the ZR1’s burnout video by visiting our friends at Jalopnik with the link below. Tell us what you think after you check it out!

[ Jalopnik ]
 

Posted By Ryan In 2009 Corvette ZR1 , Corvette Fun , Corvette Videos | 0 Comments Permalink

As always, we at CorvetteBlog have the latest constraint information straight from General Motors.

This is the fifteenth week for ordering 2009 Corvettes.  Corvettes ordered this week have a Target Production Period (TPP) of the week of October 6-12, 2008.

• 2009 Corvettes:  Completely unconstrained; all options available to order.
   
• 2009 Corvette Z06:  Completely unconstrained; all options available to order.
   
• 2009 Corvette ZR1:  Completely unconstrained; all options available to order.

If you're looking to order a new 2009 Corvette or Z06, we have allocation available this week, custom order yours now!  Let us know by leaving a comment (kept private) or by giving us a call at (888) 875-0728.  Join the many other satisfied CorvetteBlog customers and see how easy it is to do business with us.

Posted By Ryan In 2009 Corvette Ordering , 2009 Corvette ZR1 , Buying a Corvette , Corvette Equipment , Corvette News , Corvette Production | 0 Comments Permalink

As always, we at CorvetteBlog have the latest constraint information straight from General Motors.

This is the fourteenth week for ordering 2009 Corvettes.  Corvettes ordered this week have a Target Production Period (TPP) of the week of September 29-October 5, 2008.

• 2009 Corvettes:  Completely unconstrained; all options available to order.
   
• 2009 Corvette Z06:  Completely unconstrained; all options available to order.
   
• 2009 Corvette ZR1:  Completely unconstrained; all options available to order.

If you're looking to order a new 2009 Corvette or Z06, we have allocation available this week, custom order yours now!  Let us know by leaving a comment (kept private) or by giving us a call at (888) 875-0728.  Join the many other satisfied CorvetteBlog customers and see how easy it is to do business with us.

Posted By Ryan In 2009 Corvette Ordering , 2009 Corvette ZR1 , Corvette Equipment , Corvette News , Corvette Production | 0 Comments Permalink

After Kroyman Corporation, a Dutch importer, recently announced the European sticker price of the new ZR1, you should be lucky you live west of the Atlantic! Here in the United States, a ZR1 goes for $105,000, which includes shipping, luxury tax, and driver’s training courses.

Now, relatively speaking, one U.S. dollar currently equals roughly 0.64 euros. So, you would think that those lucky Europeans would able to snatch this gem of a car for close to $67,200.

However, Kroyman Corporation, which handles all Corvette sales in Europe, recently revealed an incredible 136,000 euros as the price of the new Corvette! Now, when one calculates the 136,000 euros into dollars, it leaves you with a $214,000 vehicle!!

So there you have it. Europe is already infamous for their insanely high gas prices and tax rates. And now if you want to purchase a ZR1, be extra happy you live in the United States!

[ AutoWeek ]

Posted By Ryan In 2009 Corvette ZR1 , Buying a Corvette | 0 Comments Permalink

As always, we at CorvetteBlog have the latest constraint information straight from General Motors.

This is the twelfth  week for ordering 2009 Corvettes.  Corvettes ordered this week have a Target Production Period (TPP) of the week of September 15-21, 2008.

• 2009 Corvettes:  Completely unconstrained; all options available to order.
   
• 2009 Corvette Z06:  Completely unconstrained; all options available to order.
   
• 2009 Corvette ZR1:  There is one constraint, the Q6B 19" Aluminum Chrome Wheel, which has no orders available nationally.

If you're looking to order a new 2009 Corvette or Z06, we have allocation available this week, custom order yours now!  Let us know by leaving a comment (kept private) or by giving us a call at (888) 875-0728.  Join the many other satisfied CorvetteBlog customers and see how easy it is to do business with us.

Posted By Ryan In 2009 Corvette Ordering , 2009 Corvette ZR1 , Buying a Corvette , Corvette Equipment , Corvette News , Corvette Production | 0 Comments Permalink

If you’re a devout fan of Barrett-Jackson, then you ought to be familiar with a Mr. Dave Ressler.

Even if you didn’t watch this year’s televised annual classic car auction held in Scottsdale, Arizonia, you still may recognize the name, which is often associated with his popular purchase: a MILLION dollar 2009 ZR1 Corvette!

Dave Ressler, a Chevrolet dealer and Corvette enthusiast, continues to purchase new and auctioned off Corvettes to add to his growing collection. The Ressler family collection contains now up to 25 Corvettes of all varieties. Just recently, another was added to the count…

When the ZR1 entered center stage at the auction, the audience rose to gawk at this fine-looking vehicle. Jay Leno was present to announce all the car’s special features: a supercharged 6.2L V-8 engine, 620 horsepower, durable yet weight resistant carbon fiber hood and rooftop, and the exact same brakes as the Enzo Ferrari. This ZR1 Corvette is truly a collector’s item, as it is the only one painted a LeMans blue with a VIN number of #0001. All proceeds raised by this vehicle were given to benefit the United Way charitable fund. When the bidding began, Dave Ressler stood with all intentions of not going home without it. As the bidding climaxed out at $900,000, Ressler raised his own bid to $1,000,000 to secure his purchase. Quite an asset to add to the family collection!!

Take a look at this video to watch the car bidding take place.

[ CorvetteBlogger ]

Posted By Ryan In 2009 Corvette ZR1 , Corvette Enthusiasts , Corvette Memorabilia , Corvette News , Corvette Videos | 0 Comments Permalink

• 2009 Corvettes:  Completely unconstrainted, all options available to order.
  
  
• 2009 Corvette Z06:  Completely unconstrainted, all options available to order.
  
  
• 2009 Corvette ZR1:  There is one constraint, the Q6B 19" Aluminum Chrome Wheel, with only 12 orders available again this week nationally.

Posted By Ryan In 2009 Corvette Ordering , 2009 Corvette ZR1 , Buying a Corvette , Corvette Equipment , Corvette News , Corvette Production | 0 Comments Permalink

The 10,000 fanciers of the automobile who descended upon the Meadowbrook Concours d"Elegance in Rochester Hills, Michigan Sunday discovered a stunning collection of chrome and steel.

Because GM celebrates its One Hundredth Anniversary this year, there were many more GM products in attendance than I have seen at Meadowbrook before.  Of special note were the Corvettes, including the 1959 Sting Ray Special Racer and 1967 Astro I Concept (professional pictures below).

A gathering of supercars was parked near the mansion's extensive assortment of garages.  Included among them were the Bugatti Veyron, the Audi R8, and the Corvette ZR1.  I was told that the car I captured on my cell phone was Harlan Charles' daily driver.

[ Detroit News Article ]

Posted By Bill Connell In 2009 Corvette ZR1 , Corvette Events | 0 Comments Permalink

• 2009 Corvettes:  Completely unconstrainted, all options available to order.
  
  
• 2009 Corvette Z06:  Completely unconstrainted, all options available to order.
  
  
• 2009 Corvette ZR1:  There is one constraint, the Q6B 19" Aluminum Chrome Wheel, with only 12 orders available nationally.

Posted By Ryan In 2009 Corvette Ordering , 2009 Corvette ZR1 , Buying a Corvette , Corvette Equipment , Corvette News , Corvette Production | 0 Comments Permalink

Since the first details were released on the 2009 Corvette ZR1, there have always been rumors that anyone purchasing a ZR1 would get a free session at a High Performance Driving School.  We now have confirmation that every ZR1 purchase includes a free two-day driving school offer.

The offer will be valid for the original purchaser and be valid for 12 months from the delivery date.  The two schools that are part of the program are Bob Bondurant in Phoenix, AZ and Spring Mountain Motorsports Ranch in Las Vegas, NV.  You can choose which you want to attend.

The purchaser will receive information at delivery including the name and phone numbers of each school's concierge to set up their dates.  Of course getting there and staying there is all up to you, but heck, a free two day high performance driving school is nothing to shake a stick at!

So let's say you aren't interested in the school but still purchase a ZR1, there will be no refunds or financial implications.  This is an offer everyone should take advantage of.

Posted By Ryan In 2009 Corvette ZR1 , Corvette Enthusiasts , Corvette Fun , Corvette News , Corvette Purchase Incentives | 5 Comments Permalink

• 2009 Corvettes:  Completely unconstrainted, all options available to order.
  
  
• 2009 Corvette Z06:  Completely unconstrainted, all options available to order.
  
  
• 2009 Corvette ZR1:  There is one constraint, the Q6B 19" Aluminum Chrome Wheel, with no orders available nationally.

Posted By Ryan In 2009 Corvette Ordering , 2009 Corvette ZR1 , Buying a Corvette , Corvette Equipment , Corvette News , Corvette Production | 0 Comments Permalink

• $ 1,700 Gas Guzzler Tax
  
• $ 10,000 Option Package
  
• $ 2,000 Chrome Wheels
  

Posted By Ryan In 2009 Corvette ZR1 , Corvette News | 4 Comments Permalink

Today's Corvette ZR1 Photo of the Day.  Click on the photo for our entire gallery of high res images of the 2009 Chevrolet Corvette ZR1.

Posted By Ryan In 2009 Corvette ZR1 , Corvette Pictures | 0 Comments Permalink

Today's Corvette ZR1 Photo of the Day.  Click on the photo for our entire gallery of high res images of the 2009 Chevrolet Corvette ZR1.

Posted By Ryan In 2009 Corvette ZR1 , Corvette Pictures | 0 Comments Permalink

Today's Corvette ZR1 Photo of the Day.  Click on the photo for our entire gallery of high res images of the 2009 Chevrolet Corvette ZR1.

Posted By Ryan In 2009 Corvette ZR1 , Corvette Pictures | 0 Comments Permalink

Today's Corvette ZR1 Photo of the Day.  Click on the photo for our entire gallery of high res images of the 2009 Chevrolet Corvette ZR1.

Posted By Ryan In 2009 Corvette ZR1 , Corvette Pictures | 0 Comments Permalink

Today's Corvette ZR1 Photo of the Day.  Click on the photo for our entire gallery of high res images of the 2009 Chevrolet Corvette ZR1.

Posted By Ryan In 2009 Corvette ZR1 , Corvette Pictures | 0 Comments Permalink

Today's Corvette ZR1 Photo of the Day.  Click on the photo for our entire gallery of high res images of the 2009 Chevrolet Corvette ZR1.

Posted By Ryan In 2009 Corvette ZR1 , Corvette Pictures | 0 Comments Permalink

Today's Corvette ZR1 Photo of the Day.  Click on the photo for our entire gallery of high res images of the 2009 Chevrolet Corvette ZR1.

Posted By Ryan In 2009 Corvette ZR1 , Corvette Pictures | 0 Comments Permalink

Today's Corvette ZR1 Photo of the Day.  Click on the photo for our entire gallery of high res images of the 2009 Chevrolet Corvette ZR1.

Posted By Ryan In 2009 Corvette ZR1 , Corvette Pictures | 0 Comments Permalink

Today's Corvette ZR1 Photo of the Day.  Click on the photo for our entire gallery of high res images of the 2009 Chevrolet Corvette ZR1.

Posted By Ryan In 2009 Corvette ZR1 , Corvette Pictures | 0 Comments Permalink

Today's Corvette ZR1 Photo of the Day.  Click on the photo for our entire gallery of high res images of the 2009 Chevrolet Corvette ZR1.

Posted By Ryan In 2009 Corvette ZR1 , Corvette Pictures | 0 Comments Permalink

• Delivery of the vehicle at the National Corvette Museum, in Bowling Green, Ky.
  
• A three-day experience at the Bondurant School of High Performance Driving, with renowned Corvette racer Ron Fellows serving as a special instructor
  
• Tickets to the Tonight Show with Jay Leno
  
• A personal tour of Jay Leno’s "Big Dog" garage
  

Posted By Ryan In 2009 Corvette ZR1 , Buying a Corvette , Corvette Concept & Show Cars , Corvette Events , Corvette News | 0 Comments Permalink

Today's Corvette ZR1 Photo of the Day.  Click on the photo for our entire gallery of high res images of the 2009 Chevrolet Corvette ZR1.

Posted By Ryan In 2009 Corvette ZR1 , Corvette Pictures | 0 Comments Permalink

Today's Corvette ZR1 Photo of the Day.  Click on the photo for our entire gallery of high res images of the 2009 Chevrolet Corvette ZR1.

Posted By Ryan In 2009 Corvette ZR1 , Corvette Pictures | 0 Comments Permalink

Today's Corvette ZR1 Photo of the Day.  Click on the photo for our entire gallery of high res images of the 2009 Chevrolet Corvette ZR1.

Posted By Ryan In 2009 Corvette ZR1 , Corvette Pictures | 0 Comments Permalink

Today's Corvette ZR1 Photo of the Day.  Click on the photo for our entire gallery of high res images of the 2009 Chevrolet Corvette ZR1.

Posted By Ryan In 2009 Corvette ZR1 , Corvette Pictures | 0 Comments Permalink

Today's Corvette ZR1 Photo of the Day.  Click on the photo for our entire gallery of high res images of the 2009 Chevrolet Corvette ZR1.

Posted By Ryan In 2009 Corvette ZR1 , Corvette Pictures | 0 Comments Permalink

Today's Corvette ZR1 Photo of the Day.  Click on the photo for our entire gallery of high res images of the 2009 Chevrolet Corvette ZR1.

Posted By Ryan In 2009 Corvette ZR1 , Corvette Pictures | 0 Comments Permalink

Today's Corvette ZR1 Photo of the Day.  Click on the photo for our entire gallery of high res images of the 2009 Chevrolet Corvette ZR1.

Posted By Ryan In 2009 Corvette ZR1 , Corvette Pictures | 0 Comments Permalink

Today's Corvette ZR1 Photo of the Day.  Click on the photo for our entire gallery of high res images of the 2009 Chevrolet Corvette ZR1.

Posted By Ryan In 2009 Corvette ZR1 , Corvette Pictures | 0 Comments Permalink

Today's Corvette ZR1 Photo of the Day.  Click on the photo for our entire gallery of high res images of the 2009 Chevrolet Corvette ZR1.

Posted By Ryan In 2009 Corvette ZR1 , Corvette Pictures | 1 Comments Permalink

Today's Corvette ZR1 Photo of the Day.  Click on the photo for our entire gallery of high res images of the 2009 Chevrolet Corvette ZR1.

Posted By Ryan In 2009 Corvette ZR1 , Corvette Pictures | 0 Comments Permalink

Today's Corvette ZR1 Photo of the Day.  Click on the photo for our entire gallery of high res images of the 2009 Chevrolet Corvette ZR1.

Posted By Ryan In 2009 Corvette ZR1 , Corvette Pictures | 0 Comments Permalink

Today's Corvette ZR1 Photo of the Day.  Click on the photo for our entire gallery of high res images of the 2009 Chevrolet Corvette ZR1.

Posted By Ryan In 2009 Corvette ZR1 , Corvette Pictures | 0 Comments Permalink

Today's Corvette ZR1 Photo of the Day.  Click on the photo for our entire gallery of high res images of the 2009 Chevrolet Corvette ZR1.

Posted By Ryan In 2009 Corvette ZR1 , Corvette Pictures | 0 Comments Permalink

Today's Corvette ZR1 Photo of the Day.  Click on the photo for our entire gallery of high res images of the 2009 Chevrolet Corvette ZR1.

Posted By Ryan In 2009 Corvette ZR1 , Corvette Pictures | 0 Comments Permalink

Today's Corvette ZR1 Photo of the Day.  Click on the photo for our entire gallery of high res images of the 2009 Chevrolet Corvette ZR1.

Posted By Ryan In 2009 Corvette ZR1 , Corvette Pictures | 0 Comments Permalink

Today's Corvette ZR1 Photo of the Day.  Click on the photo for our entire gallery of high res images of the 2009 Chevrolet Corvette ZR1.

Posted By Ryan In 2009 Corvette ZR1 , Corvette Pictures | 0 Comments Permalink

Today's Corvette ZR1 Photo of the Day.  Click on the photo for our entire gallery of high res images of the 2009 Chevrolet Corvette ZR1 L3 Supercharged Engine.

Posted By Ryan In 2009 Corvette ZR1 , Corvette Pictures | 0 Comments Permalink

Today's Corvette ZR1 Photo of the Day.  Click on the photo for our entire gallery of high res images of the 2009 Chevrolet Corvette ZR1.

Posted By Ryan In 2009 Corvette ZR1 , Corvette Pictures | 0 Comments Permalink

Today's Corvette ZR1 Photo of the Day.  Click on the photo for our entire gallery of high res images of the 2009 Chevrolet Corvette ZR1.

Posted By Ryan In 2009 Corvette ZR1 , Corvette Pictures | 0 Comments Permalink

Today's Corvette ZR1 Photo of the Day.  Click on the photo for our entire gallery of high res images of the 2009 Chevrolet Corvette ZR1.

Posted By Ryan In 2009 Corvette ZR1 , Corvette Pictures | 0 Comments Permalink

Today's Corvette ZR1 Photo of the Day.  Click on the photo for our entire gallery of high res images of the 2009 Chevrolet Corvette ZR1.

Posted By Ryan In 2009 Corvette ZR1 , Corvette Pictures | 0 Comments Permalink

Today's Corvette ZR1 Photo of the Day.  Click on the photo for our entire gallery of high res images of the 2009 Chevrolet Corvette ZR1.

Posted By Ryan In 2009 Corvette ZR1 , Corvette Pictures | 0 Comments Permalink

Today's Corvette ZR1 Photo of the Day.  Click on the photo for our entire gallery of high res images of the 2009 Chevrolet Corvette ZR1.

Posted By Ryan In 2009 Corvette ZR1 , Corvette Pictures | 0 Comments Permalink

Today's Corvette ZR1 Photo of the Day.  Click on the photo for our entire gallery of high res images of the 2009 Chevrolet Corvette ZR1.

Posted By Ryan In 2009 Corvette ZR1 , Corvette Pictures | 0 Comments Permalink

Today's Corvette ZR1 Photo of the Day.  Click on the photo for our entire gallery of high res images of the 2009 Chevrolet Corvette ZR1.

Posted By Ryan In 2009 Corvette ZR1 , Corvette Pictures | 0 Comments Permalink

Today's Corvette ZR1 Photo of the Day.  Click on the photo for our entire gallery of high res images of the 2009 Chevrolet Corvette ZR1.

Posted By Ryan In 2009 Corvette ZR1 , Corvette Pictures | 0 Comments Permalink

Today's Corvette ZR1 Photo of the Day.  Click on the photo for our entire gallery of high res images of the 2009 Chevrolet Corvette ZR1.

Posted By Ryan In 2009 Corvette ZR1 , Corvette Pictures | 2 Comments Permalink

Today's Corvette ZR1 Photo of the Day.  Click on the photo for our entire gallery of high res images of the 2009 Chevrolet Corvette ZR1.

Posted By Ryan In 2009 Corvette ZR1 , Corvette Pictures | 0 Comments Permalink

Today's Corvette ZR1 Photo of the Day.  Click on the photo for our entire gallery of high res images of the 2009 Chevrolet Corvette ZR1.

Posted By Ryan In 2009 Corvette ZR1 , Corvette Pictures | 0 Comments Permalink

Today's Corvette ZR1 Photo of the Day.  Click on the photo for our entire gallery of high res images of the 2009 Chevrolet Corvette ZR1.

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Today's breaking news is a selection of three photos of the LS9 6.2L Supercharged Engine which will be used in the 2009 Corvette ZR1.

Th car itself will be revealed at the N.A.I.A.S., also known as the Detroit Auto Show in January.

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[ Other CorvetteBlogs on ZR1 ]

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No one seems to be commenting on the apparent see-through panels behind the front wheel openings of the 2009 Corvette ZR1 (a.k.a. Blue Devil) seen prancing around the track at Laguna Seca last weekend.

And yet, it must be!  A close look into that photographed panel reveals the shape of engine parts.  Could this be a feature of the coming monster Corvette, or just a way to study the engine with the hood shut?  What do you think?

Blown-up fuzzy photo past the jump.

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Posted By Bill Connell In 2009 Corvette ZR1 | 0 Comments Permalink

The rumors were true!  Chevy's much anticipated 2009 Corvette ZR1 did drive a loop at Laguna Seca on Saturday, and many photos were taken.

Still partially hidden with blacked out panels, the car was unloaded from a trailer, and driven to much acclaim.  The ZR1 wheels are beautiful.  The raised, almost mounded, hood is clearly evolutionary in design.  The rear spoiler is full width.  It appeared to be in manual transmission iteration.  And, exactly what's going on behind the front wheel openings is still not clear to this writer.

Winding Road has the broadest selection of photography.  Enjoy!

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Posted By Bill Connell In 2009 Corvette ZR1 , Corvette Racing | 1 Comments Permalink

Anyone who really knows isn't telling, but the photo posted today on Bad Boy Vettes might be that of a prototype 2009 Corvette ZR1.

Anticipations grows.  Expectation is that the new ZR1 will be revealed at the North American International Auto Show this January in Detroit.

A big thanks to Keith at CorvetteBlogger for the heads up on the Bad Boy Vettes story.

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Posted By Bill Connell In 2009 Corvette ZR1 | 0 Comments Permalink

Our friend Keith, the CorvetteBlogger, brought to our attention that Jalopnik had posted some spy photos from the Priddy organization.  The accompanying report says:

At a quick glance this might look like an 'ordinary' Z06 with a vinyl-clad hood, but this Corvette is anything but ordinary!

Power for this beast will come from GM's new LS9 motor. The LS9 is a 6.2L, supercharged, small-block V8. This powerplant will put out anywhere from 600-650 horsepower. The supercharged V8 will utilize an integrated intake manifold intercooler, and it's expected to run a 0-60 in under 3.5 seconds. The 6.2-liter V8 will be built at GM's Performance Center in Wixom, Michigan. Our photographer reported that the exhaust note coming from this monster was "VERY mean....VERY angry."

Posted By Bill Connell In 2009 Corvette ZR1 | 0 Comments Permalink

Keith of CorvetteBlogger has reminded us of a blog he wrote on January 1, 2007, pertaining to the trademark application made by GM for the ZR1 nomenclature.

At the time, Keith wrote, "Now it would be irresponsible speculation on my part to think that GM would have an interest in using the ZR-1 RPO code for the Blue Devil / SS Corvette."

That speculation in January is now at odds with the recent announcement from Motor Trend.  The plot thickens.

Posted By Bill Connell In 2009 Corvette ZR1 , Corvettes of the Future | 0 Comments Permalink

This news broke Tuesday and has been rippling everywhere on the Net.  It appears that it was Todd Lassa's post at the Motor Trend Community Blog that got it started.  Word is, that the previously called Corvette Blue Devil will be called the Corvette ZR1.

You may know from a previous post that I have predicted Corvette SS.  In fact, I still want to believe that it will be Corvette SS.  Some of the other bloggers think that Lassa's statement is conjecture, and not based on an infallible source.  However, most of the solid advance information we have received so far has indeed come from Motor Trend!  Likelihood of accuracy here is, thus, pretty good.  As a result, Corvette Blog now has a new category of previous stories (at the right): 2009 Corvette ZR1 (Blue Devil).

[ Stories on Future Corvettes ]

Posted By Bill Connell In 2009 Corvette ZR1 , Corvette News , Corvette Production , Corvettes of the Future | 6 Comments Permalink

The magazines and blogs are all over the Corvette SS (or Corvette Blue Devil or Corvette Z07) again.  There are articles on CorvetteBlogger, AutoBlog, and AutoNewsGuide, all linked for you to check out.  All of the articles appear to rely on a Popular Mechanics posting by Jim Dunne.  In turn, Dunne seems to have gotten his information from a large Michigan Corvette dealership. 

I can tell you that it wasn't our Corvette dealership, so I can't assure you of the authenticity of the remarks.  In summary, though, there seem to be five lines of thought currently being emphasized:

Posted By Bill Connell In 2009 Corvette ZR1 , Corvettes of the Future | 0 Comments Permalink

Chevrolet dealers were treated to a taste of upcoming Corvette product Thursday afternoon by video.

Though the program was on the 2008 Corvette, dealer after dealer questioned Chevrolet product staff regarding the availablity of the so-called Blue Devil, SS, Z07, Stingray, or Sting Ray.

Gary Claudio, North America Marketing Manager for GM responded time and again by saying: "Stay tuned, and save your money!  It will make you smile!"

Looks like a lot of people will be smiling ... we just don't know when!

Posted By Bill Connell In 2009 Corvette ZR1 , Corvette News , Corvettes of the Future | 1 Comments Permalink

In a clever and original consideration, Marty Padgett of the Car Connection website applauds GM for its promotion of the Corvette SS at the very same time it promotes the fuel saving Volt.  Chevy dealers, of course, would like to have both, and the sooner the better.  Personally, I'd like one of each.

In having two "halo cars"  so distinctly different, GM presents itself as the innovator of all things automotive and powerful, while at the same time holds out hope for an efficient, fuel saving, attractive, and hip family sedan.  Quite a feat!

[ Car Connection ]

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Jim Dunne has provided the best photographs to date of the coming Corvette SS!  Just published by Popular Mechanics, shots from all sides give us a tantalizing look at what's on its way.

A power-plant dispensing 650 horsepower (or more), combined with an anticipated greater usage of carbon fiber throughout the vehicle to reduce weight, will result in unbelievable performance capabilities right out of dealers' showrooms.  Certainly the rumored cost of over $100,000 will limit the customer base, but once again the "performance for the buck" factor will make Corvette SS a runaway winner!

[ Popular Mechanics ]

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Posted By Bill Connell In 2009 Corvette ZR1 , Corvette News , Corvettes of the Future | 3 Comments Permalink

Car & Driver today published a recent interview with Dr. Bob Lutz in regard to the upcoming Corvette SS.  Of course, the concern has been on how the recently announced HOLD on rear wheel architecture GM vehicle development might affect Corvette.  "Not at all" is the correct answer!

In an article they published under the title "2009 CORVETTE BLUE DEVIL CONFIRMED AND IN FINAL TUNING PHASE," Alisa Priddle reports that confirms Chevrolet's plan to have significantly more horsepower than Viper's 600, but certainly not 700 until at least the second year of the SS variant.

Posted By Bill Connell In 2009 Corvette ZR1 , Corvette News , Corvettes of the Future | 0 Comments Permalink

My snail mail copy of Corvette Fever just hit the in-box, and they have published a timetable on our highly anticipated Corvette SS.  Claiming infallibility from a GM insider, the author of the article states that this vehicle program was officially initiated on June 20, 2005.

The Anticipated Validation Testing completion date is October 15, 2007.  The Start of Production Date is March 8, 2008, less than a year away!

Body modifications of a grander sort than have been seen in any "spy shots" will be required to accommodate P335/25R20 tires.  The inside word is that the supercharged 6.2L LS9 engine will produce 650 horses and 650 foot-pounds of torque!  The transmission will be the six-speed MTX.  Electronic limited-slip differential and a next generation brake and engine intervention traction control system round out the package.

That ought to put thoughts of Vipers out of the minds of the last hold-outs!

[ Corvette Fever ]

Posted By Bill Connell In 2009 Corvette ZR1 , Corvette News , Corvette Production , Corvettes of the Future | 0 Comments Permalink

GMsource.com is showing an alternative concept of the coming Corvette SS.  Chris Pauwels has taken the same information we used from the scooped SS being shipped out of Romulus for Germany, and penned a proposed look.  Please click to see it as I have not requested permission to use the photo.

Chris thinks that the hood will be raised perhaps an inch or two, but with no air scoop in the hood at all.  I agree that everything I've seen would accommodate this look, but I'm still leaning to the photo I showed a few days ago here at the Corvette Blog.

[ Corvette Blog Story ]

Posted By Bill Connell In 2009 Corvette ZR1 , Corvette News , Corvettes of the Future | 0 Comments Permalink

When Winding Road broke their story about their bogus black Corvette SS, do you remember the hulking scoop on the hood?

When Jalopnik and others revealed the "real photos" of the red Corvette SS at Detroit Metropolitan Airport in Romulus last month, did you notice the cover/bra over the hood?  It is not hiding a raised scoop, right?  Where did it go?

Posted By Bill Connell In 2009 Corvette ZR1 , Corvette Pictures , Corvettes of the Future | 0 Comments Permalink

According to the Detroit News this past Saturday, photographs published on the new Corvette SS prototype with supercharger were removed from the website fast-autos.net.  They remain now two days later at three other websites (at the least): Jalopnik, GM Source, and Edmunds.

The question would be why can the photos be shown at some sites, and not others? What’s your take?

[ Detroit News ]

[ Jalopnik ]

[ GM Source ]

[ Edmunds ]

Posted By Bill Connell In 2009 Corvette ZR1 , Corvette News , Corvettes of the Future | 0 Comments Permalink

GM had said that they will improve the value of the storied SS nameplate in the Chevrolet franchise, and the next step is finally underway!  The SS Concept Car shown was introduced some years ago when the announcement was first made.

According to sources at AutoBlog today, the production code for the upcoming Corvette super powered performance machine is GMX245-SSC.  It is now clear that this rockin' 600hp (or more) Vette will be a version of the C6 generation because the first part of the code, GMX245, is used for the current C6 Base and Z06 models.

Posted By Bill Connell In 2009 Corvette ZR1 , Corvette News , Corvettes of the Future | 2 Comments Permalink

DETROIT -- Corvette rumors are as rampant these days as tabloid stories about Nick and Jessica. But aficionados' antennae are picking up emanations from deep inside General Motors that Chevrolet is readying an ultra Vette for 2008 that should outgun the new Z06

Posted By J.P. In 2009 Corvette ZR1 , Corvettes of the Future | 0 Comments Permalink