2007 Chevrolet Corvette Z06
by Jim Prueter - 02/07

Mercy…..

Z06 is the high performance version of the already high-performance American icon, Corvette. With an eye-popping 505 horsepower, the new Z06 has a remarkable set of performance statistics: zero to 60 miles per hour in 3.5 seconds, zero to 100 mph in 7.8 seconds, the quarter-mile in 11.5 seconds and a top speed of 198 mph.

Of course, nobody needs that kind of power. But again, it isn’t about using the power; it’s about knowing you have it. And if ever one could say a $70,000 car is a “bargain” then the Z06 is it.

To put in perspective, only the Enzo Ferrari, McLaren F1, Saleen S7 and Porsche Carrera GT are quicker. Each of those is a limited-production vehicle and costs between $400,000 and $1,000,000. Dodge Viper, in the same class with the Z06 in terms of price and performance, isn’t nearly as capable or as civil as a daily driver. It starts at $85,000.

Beyond the pure performance numbers is the amazing fact that this super muscle car isn’t hit with a gas-guzzler tax because it averages over 20 miles per gallon in EPA testing with a rating of 16 mpg in the city and 26 in highway driving.

To get these kinds of numbers, Corvette engineers swapped the heavier steel frame found under the regular Corvette in favor of an all-aluminum chassis. Fenders are pricey carbon fiber versus fiberglass. These changes result in a 50-pound weight loss from the standard Corvette.

The engine is a seven-liter, 427 cubic-inch V-8 rated at 505 horsepower and 475-pound feet of torque, mated to a six-speed manual shifter — perhaps the weakest link in the entire package.

At lower speeds, the transmission forces the shifter from first to fourth gear, bypassing second and third. This system was engineered several years ago to improve fuel efficiency in return for a mileage credit from the EPA, thus eliminating the gas-guzzler tax. It’s aggravating to think you’ve shifted into second gear only to find you’re in fourth at 20-25 miles per hour.

I drove the bright red test car mainly around town with just enough excuses to find an interstate on ramp to feel the full effect of the massive horsepower and torque. I learned quickly that you better know where you’re going because you’re there before you have a chance to shift out of first gear. Acceleration is breathtaking and long was the line of friends, neighbors and work associates who stood drooling, waiting for a ride.

I kept thinking “easy, easy.” I don’t need to be picked up by Arizona’s finest and spend a night or two in Sheriff Joe’s tent city — pink underwear, green bologna and all — because I couldn’t discipline myself to keep the Z06 within posted speeds. The temptation is seductively powerful.

The Z06 only comes as a fixed-roof hatchback coupe. Exterior identification includes unique Z06 badging on each front fender, a three-inch wider base than the standard Corvette, radical fender flares on the rear, and forward facing air ducts to cool rear brakes. The front fascia is larger with a functional scoop on the carbon fiber hood and a larger rear spoiler to increase the down force for handling stability. Identifiable red brake calipers are unique to the Z06. Exhaust outlets are significantly larger than those on a non-Z06 Corvette.

Inside are unique Z06 seats that are surprisingly not bolstered, but comfortable nonetheless. The only Z06 identification inside is on the dash gauges, otherwise the interior is standard issue Corvette. Cargo space of 22 cubic feet is ample and appreciated.

Standard safety features include dual front airbags, keyless entry with push button start, antilock four-wheel disc brakes and stability control. Side airbags are optional; curtain bags are not available. There are no crash test results for the Corvette.

Despite the performance orientation of the Z06, one could easily use it as a daily driver and not be disappointed. Six exterior and three interior colors are available along with options like an upgraded audio and navigation system and several wheel options.

While easily the most expensive Corvette ever built, it delivers everything found in any number of expensive European offerings including incredible acceleration, sensational handling, excellent comfortable ride quality and more fun than should be allowed behind the wheel of a vehicle.

Z06 is the kind of car that makes you proud of American engineering and performance know-how. It’s a blast to drive. Literally.