Corvette Blog

The editorial staff from Edmunds.com have a great perk! They get to travel on long road trips with very nice cars and then write about it in their Long-Term Road Tests blog!

Now after joy-riding hundreds of vehicles of all makes, they have chosen their next culprit… the 2002 Corvette Z06.

Why a 2002 Z06? Well, the crew wanted to find a powerful, used Corvette with reasonable mileage and no aftermarket features all for a relatively low cost.

So, after much searching, they ended up purchasing a Z06 for $20,000 from a man who just couldn’t afford having two cars anymore. The cost didn’t matter much to them when they admit to having seen the “405 Horsepower” badge on the vehicle’s side.

With 41,906 miles on the odometer and an average fuel economy of 14.2mpg, the crew has already begun their 12-month adventure. See where the Z06’s 5.7-liter LS6 V8 engine takes them...

Follow their journey by clicking here.

[ Inside Line ]

Posted By Ryan In Corvette Enthusiasts , Corvette Fun , Corvette Performance , Corvette Reviews | 0 Comments Permalink

Lingenfelter Performance Engineering of Decatur, Indiana has been around for over 30 years specializing in the performance engineering industry. Just this past December, the company achieved altering the fastest Corvette ever produced to go even faster.

After multiple altercations and LS9 supercharged enhancements, Lingenfelter’s 2009 Corvette ZR1 was ready to hit the Maryland International Speedway on the morning of December 7, 2009. Results?

First quarter-mile in 9.813 seconds at speeds of 145.74 miles per hour!!

The results blew everyone away, and can be attributed to the supercharger upgrades that included: cast aluminum air intake, 11-rib pulley, 11-rib harmonic balancer, upgraded air filter, four-inch diameter intake tube with mass air sensor and ported throttle body. Other modifications were made to the heat exchanger, intercooler reservoir, wheels and fuel system.

To see this baby in action, check out the video after the jump. Imagine sitting behind that steering wheel… Talk about adrenaline rush!

[ AutoBlog ]

Continue Reading Posted By Ryan In Corvette Concept & Show Cars , Corvette Fun , Corvette Performance , Corvette Videos | 0 Comments Permalink

Just this past August, we told you about the C6.R Corvette debuting for the first time ever in the new GT2 race class. That was then.

Now… we’re here to here to tell you about the new racing ‘Vette!

Doug Fehan, Corvette Racing program manager, recently unveiled the all-new 2010 C6.R V8 5.5-liter Corvette.

Yes, the vehicle already debuted, but NOT with the powerful engine she has in tow now. The new engine actually has been in the making since the vehicle’s initial debut. The production of the engine will continue to be built alongside ZR1 and Z06 V8s in GM’s Performance Build Center.

The C6.R, new engine and all, will officially hit the tracks for the first time at this year’s 12 Hours of Sebring in March. Stay tuned to follow closely on how well she performs!

[ AutoBlog ]

Posted By Ryan In Corvette News , Corvette Performance , Corvette Racing | 0 Comments Permalink

Some Corvette enthusiasts just can’t seem to get enough.

For instance, the owner of this beautiful white C6 Corvette likely felt a need to impress his crowd of roaring fans. So, he made a simple (yet stupid) adjustment to his ‘Vette. He added a Nitrous Oxide System (NOS).

And look what happens… Don’t ruin your ‘Vette too. Be smart.  Check out the video after the jump.

Click here for NOS FAQs to consider before you repeat this dummy.

[ CorvetteBlogger ]

Continue Reading Posted By Ryan In Corvette Equipment , Corvette News , Corvette Performance , Corvette Videos | 0 Comments Permalink

Popular Mechanics recently set up an interesting comparison – BMW M3 vs. Corvette Grand Sport.

Though these vehicles and their manufacturers are vastly different, there are similarities between each model that make this battle rather interesting…

1. Both share V8 engines that output over 400 horsepower.
2. Both have rear-wheel drive to support with acceleration performance.
3. Both cost nearly the same in price. (M3 - $59,975; Grand Sport - $55,720)

Knowing these similarities exist, we are still aware that these vehicles are completely different in every further aspect including manufacturer, design, technical performance, steering, etc. But, in the interest of time, let’s skip to the exciting part… Who will cross the finish line first?

Unfortunately, no video of the race was captured, though the acceleration stats will do justice.

Acceleration (sec)	BMW M3	Corvette Grand Sport
0 – 30 mph	1.99	2.06
0 – 60 mph	4.61	4.55
0 – 100 mph	10.75	9.93
0 – 120 mph	15.62	14.03
0 – 150 mph	28.18	25.64
40 – 70 mph	2.98	2.81
Quarter-mile	12.76 @ 109.82	12.63 @ 114.20

Although the performance is very close, the Grand Sport comes out ahead in most categories.

What do you think of the comparison?

[ Popular Mechanics ]

Posted By Ryan In 2010 Corvette , Corvette Competitors , Corvette News , Corvette Performance , Corvette Reviews | 1 Comments Permalink

We came across this great video featuring John Rydzewski, the Assistant Chief Engineer for Small-Block Passenger Car Engines at GM showing off the 2010 Grand Sport LS3 Dry Sump Lubrication System.  We have been fielding a lot of calls and emails from our readers about the engine, how it works and the features included.  The engines are built just down the road from us here in Wixom, Michigan and are signed and hand built by American workers.

To note though is that these engines are only available on the 2010 Corvette Grand Sport coupes with manual transmissions.  They are not available on Grand Sport Convertibles or with automatic transmissions.

Sit back, relax and enjoy...

[ VetteTube ][

Posted By Ryan In 2010 Corvette , Corvette Equipment , Corvette Parts , Corvette Performance , Corvette Videos | 0 Comments Permalink

General Motor’s new test track, located in Yuma, Arizona, held its grand opening on Wednesday, July 22. To celebrate, the Arizona Corvette Enthusiasts car club brought an array of Corvettes to initiate the track’s grand opening.

"We heard about the grand opening and suggested we get our Corvettes out to the event to support GM and its employees," said Thomas Counts, AZ Corvette enthusiast.

The Yuma track itself was originally built to replace GM’s 50-year-old track in Mesa. The $100 million new track was constructed within the Yuma Proving Ground and occupies 2,400 acres of land. Fortunately, the track opened just in time for the busy season in hot weather testing.

So now, the next time you’re in Arizona, be sure to visit the new Yuma track. I’m sure it’s worth the ride!

[ Examiner.com ]

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

Techco, an aftermarket company based in Anaheim, is known for adding their “special touches” to Chrysler LX and Ford Mustang platforms.

Now, it’s Chevrolet Corvette’s turn…

Techco recently got their hands on a new C6 Corvette, adding on a reverse-revolution twin-screw supercharger system. This baby fit right underneath the hood with no adjustments to the body needed. The supercharger’s features include an 8-rib drive system, dual A-Frame intercooler system, high-volume fuel rails with 54 lb/hr injectors, which all allow the C6 to perform with:

• 600 horsepower
  
• 535 lb.-ft. torque
  
• 6 pounds of boost
  
• 3.0-liter displacement

The price? You may ask… only $8,500. Not bad! And even though you can’t see this monster lurking underneath the hood, just a slight touch of the gas pedal will tell a different story. So watch out!

For more details on the supercharger system, click here.

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

Hennessey Performance Engineering recently unveiled the next step up from the ZR1… the 2010 Hennessey ZR700.

To build the ZR700, HPE has taken the ZR1 and enhanced it to become lighter, faster and more powerful. Instead of 638 horsepower, the Z700 comes equipped with 705 dyno-tuned horsepower. The replacement of carbon fiber seats, carbon fiber and Michilin Pilot Cup Sport wheels were all modified to make the overall vehicle weigh less. Z-Aero carbon fiber splinter, canards and a rear spoiler were also added as aero enhancement additions to account for 300lbs. of downforce.

The real test comes later this year when HPE plans to travel to Germany with the ZR700 and complete the Nurburgring lap time in 7:26. Will the ZR1 really have a chance?

A minimum of 24 ZR700s will ever be produced. The cost… $207,150. (This price also includes a day’s worth of performance driving instruction on HPE’s very own Lonestar Motorsports Park.)

Can the ZR1 handle the ZR700? Does it even compare? What do you think?

[ Hennessey Performance ]

Posted By Ryan In Corvette Concept & Show Cars , Corvette News , Corvette Performance | 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

A tire is a tire, right?  Wrong.  Many consumers lack pertinent information about how a tire can improve a vehicle’s performance and potentially reduce fuel costs. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) wants to change this and educate consumers during their next tire purchase.

The NHTSA has proposed that tires come equipped with removable labels, explaining that individual tire’s fuel efficiency and greenhouse gas rating, safety (wet traction), and durability (tread wear).

Purchase a better quality tire, save gas costs, and remain eco-friendly… we like!  Of course Corvette tires are certainly specialized and not like other tires out there and it will be interesting to see how they are rated.

The proposal is still awaiting approval by the end of the year. For more information, visit www.safercar.gov. Would you base your next tire purchase off such a label? What do you think?

[ USA Today ]

Posted By Ryan In Corvette Equipment , Corvette News , Corvette Parts , Corvette Performance , Corvette Safety | 0 Comments Permalink

Owning a vehicle with a V8 engine means heavy fuel costs, right?

Well, Popular Mechanics proved this false after testing a Corvette C6’s fuel economy, and discovering Corvettes “most amazing talent… its astonishing fuel economy”.

The Test Environment

• Vehicle:  Corvette C6 standard six-speed manual transmission
• Route:  140 miles, roundtrip along California’s US Route 101
• Speed:  55 mph (10 under)
• Fuel Type:  18-gallon tank with 91 octane gas
• Additional:  Cruise control used, no A/C, windows up

The Results

• Avg. speed:  52.8 mph
• Avg. mpg:  32.8 mpg!!!!!!!!

WOW!! To measure 32.8 mpg on the highway is close to what a 2008 Ford Focus clocks. Pretty spectacular for a super car like Corvette to get similar results!

Now you can feel confident driving an American-made hot ride while also saving on fuel costs. Sign us up!

[ Popular Mechanics ]

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

It would be much of an understatement to say that Germany’s Geiger Cars takes American vehicles to the next level. From Hummer to Camaro, Geiger continues to add full-blown exotic customizing touches to each of their chosen prey. And now, Geiger has left their remnants on the very well-known Corvette Z06…

Just a quick glance at “Wild Thing” will tell you she means business! This bright lime green twin-turbo Z06 can reach up to 890hp at speeds as high as 220mph, outputting 694 lb-ft of torque! Whoa! The vehicle’s cylinder heads, valve springs, mass air meter, exhaust system, and of course dual turbochargers have all been enhanced.

Check out the full gallery of pictures and wallpapers for your computer with the link below.  Ready for a ride? Better buckle your seat belt first!

[ Geiger Cars ]

Posted By Ryan In Corvette Concept & Show Cars , Corvette Performance | 0 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 standard 6.2L V8 Corvette has recently seen an upgrade courtesy of Callaway Cars. Now in business for 20 years, this company specializes in creating “commercial value by providing driving enthusiasts with maximum satisfaction”. The new kit, available on the 2009 Corvettes, boosts the vehicle’s horsepower to 580hp. This amount of pure horsepower allows the vehicle to reach high speeds of up to 200 miles per hour!

The LS3 V8 Corvette even witnessed tremendous output with the addition of Callaway’s supercharged package. The vehicle was able to accelerate from 0-60 miles per hour in only 3.5 seconds. Better yet, the vehicle was able to make it across the quarter mile in only 11.2 seconds time, flying at speeds up to 124 miles per hour. Incredible!

For this $18,900 supercharge package, Callaway aims to improve the vehicle, while also improving overall customer satisfaction. Would you be willing to pay for this luxury for your ‘Vette? With constant improvements, there’s no doubt that this company will keep progressing forward. In fact, just recently they were able to open shop in Corona, California.

[ Callaway ]

Posted By Ryan In Corvette Concept & Show Cars , Corvette Equipment , Corvette News , Corvette Performance | 0 Comments Permalink

The C6 Corvette Coupe recently underwent a National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) crash test. The C6 was hit broadside on the driver side of the vehicle to test its endurance. Following the hit, results from the C6 showed that the body of the vehicle held up relatively well. Take a look for yourself at this 15 second YouTube video.

What do you think?

Posted By Ryan In 2008 Corvettes , 2010 Corvette , Corvette News , Corvette Performance , Corvette Safety , Corvette Videos | 0 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 ]

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

Katech recently introduced their new lightweight, sleek and yet stylish Corvette Z06 ClubSport. The ClubSport package includes an array of aftermarket products which both help to reduce the vehicle’s weight and make for a hot looking ride, both on or off the track.

With several modifications put into place, the Katech crew worked to improve the vehicle’s power-to-weight ratio, leaving the vehicle’s weight at 2,915 pounds. Jason Harding of Katech’s Performance part sales made the comment: “Lamborghini has its Gallardo Superleggera, Ferrari its F430 Scuderia and Dodge its Viper ACR. Now the Corvette Z06 has the ClubSport package from Katech Performance.”

Now to see more exclusive photos of this stunning vehicle, make sure you click on AutoBlog's Katech's Corvette Z06 ClubSport Gallery.

[ Katech ]

Posted By Ryan In Corvette Equipment , Corvette Performance | 0 Comments Permalink

Katech, Inc., headquartered in Clinton Township Michigan is an industrial leader in advanced racing and high performance engine development. The company has only been around for four years and is already known for their professional engine development for high performance racing vehicles. Heck, they were the ones responsible for constructing the engines that went into the Le Mans-winning Corvette C6R and SCCA SPEED World Challenge cars. Regardless, they know what they’re doing!

Just recently, they have introduced a new lightweight ClubSport package for the Corvette Z06. For those of you speed enthusiasts, this package allows the Corvette Z06 to reduce curb weight to 2,915 lbs. while improving grip, cornering, braking, and downforce.

Jason Harding, a Katech associate retorts, “Lamborghini has its Gallardo Superleggera, Ferrari its F430 Scuderia and Dodge its Viper ACR. Now the Corvette Z06 has the ClubSport package from Katech Performance.”

The ClubSport comes with a variety of aftermarket products that allow this vehicle to travel faster and lighter. This Katech Performance Z06 ClubSport package begins at $109,000 and includes the following:

• Brembo® Gran Turismo Brake Kit
• Moton Clubsport Suspension
• Katech Performance ClubSport 15-spoke Wheels
• Michelin® Pilot® Sport Cup Tires
• Katech Performance Appearance Package
• Halltech Killer Bee™ Air Intake
• Katech Performance Exhaust System
• Exedy Twin-Disc Clutch
• Braille Battery

For further information, check out the Katech website article by clicking here.
 

[ Katech ]

 

Posted By Ryan In Corvette Equipment , Corvette Performance | 0 Comments Permalink

Last Thursday's 2008 GM Performance Build Center Open House is now history, but what an excellent opportunity it was to see the amazing engines that power both the Z06 and the ZR1 in production!   Whether this annual event is officially keyed to the timing of the Woodward Dream Cruise I know not, but it does provide a great chance for those in town for the best car show in the world to see the craftsmanship of these fabulous engines.

Photography was not allowed in the assembly area, but that was no problem as Popular Hot Rodding Magazine previously provided the pictures of what we saw.  My own photos in this blog focus on the exterior and public areas.  Check the video of the build process for extra insight, and then view the photos past the break.

[ More ZR1 Info ]

[ Jewel in GM's Powertrain Crown ]

Continue Reading Posted By Bill Connell In Corvette Equipment , Corvette Events , Corvette Performance , Corvette Production | 0 Comments Permalink

Talk about impressive!  Our friends over at AutoBlog alerted us to the post on CorvetteForum showing that Jamie Furman, driving a stock C6 Corvette Z06 with run flat tires got under 11 seconds, 10.98 to be exact at 129 mph at the Maryland International Raceway.  The time was validated by an official at the track, setting the record for the fastest production vehicle!

After watching video after video of other random vehicles with much less power overtaking the Z06 on YouTube, it makes me proud to see Jamie going out and making this happen at MIR.

While the record isn't recognized necessarily by any governing body, the simple fact that he has the proof to show and that people all over the internet are talking about his achievement is good enough for us!

After reading on in the story, we find out that Furman actually owned Vipers back in the day.  Seeing that its usually the Viper-lovers that create the most noise about how they think their car beats the Vette, this should quiet them... at least for a while.

Feel free to head over to AutoBlog for the larger scanned images of both of Jamie Furman's races, one with the run flat tires and one with special drag tires.

[ AutoBlog ] Posted By Ryan In Corvette Competitors , Corvette News , Corvette Performance , Corvette Racing | 15 Comments Permalink

Stunning in its appearance.  Powerful in its essence.  Practical in its fuel flexibility.  Have these three descriptions ever been used of one vehicle?

The E85 powered Corvette C6RS features a Katech Engineering modified 6.2L powerplant.  The annual Specialty Equipment Manufacturers Association show has been honored this week with this beauty!

More photos appear past the jump.

[ Related Blog ]

[ AutoBlog ]

Continue Reading Posted By Bill Connell In Corvette Equipment , Corvette Events , Corvette Performance | 1 Comments Permalink

If the sound of your Corvette is important to you, and if you would appreciate a few more ponies, you might want to consider what is generally known as a "cat-back" exhaust system.  Not only does such a system increase power, but it enhances the way the vehicle sounds -- or in the case of the newest systems from Corsa Performance, the way it doesn't sound.

Corsa has been doing exhaust enhancement for Corvette since 1998, and their patented Reflective Sound Canceling (RSC) technology has been welcomed by many Corvette enthusiasts.  Corsa shows up at all of the big Corvette shows (like Bloomington Gold, Corvettes at Carlisle, Corvette Funfest) to demonstrate the improvements and to do installations on the spot.

Larry Edsall's report on the Corsa system is covered in yesterday Detroit News, but the best source of additional information would be Corsa Performance itself.

Posted By Bill Connell In Corvette Equipment , Corvette Parts , Corvette Performance | 0 Comments Permalink

The Lingenfelter Corvette was one of six high performance supercars tested at a California Naval Air station on Memorial Day weekend.  This was no field of lightweights!  Facing competition for the world's fastest 0-200 mph in a stock or modified vehicle, running on DOT tires, were: Lamborghini Murcielago, Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren, Ruf Rt 12 Porsche Turbo, Lingenfelter Corvette, Bugatti Veyron 16.4, and Hennessey Venom 1000 Twin Turbo Viper.

You can read the fascinating details of the results in September's Road & Track, now in homes and offices everywhere.  The story can also be enjoyed on-line.

Continue Reading Posted By Bill Connell In Corvette Competitors , Corvette Performance | 2 Comments Permalink

The Corvette Team announced to Chevrolet Corvette dealers on Thursday that official acceleration figures for the 2008 Corvette are smokin' hot!

Coupes and Convertibles with 6-speed paddle shifting automatic and without the 2.73 axle ratio:
0-60 in 4.3 seconds.

Coupes and Convertibles with 6-speed manual with Z51 Package: 0-60 in 4.1 seconds.

Z06: 0-60 in 3.7 seconds.

Posted By Bill Connell In Corvette Performance | 0 Comments Permalink