More powerful than the old SLS Black Series
It is still possible, even in the time of turbos and hybrid systems. Chevrolet introduces the most powerful naturally aspirated V8 ever for a production car. The new LT6 climbs to 8,600 rpm and generates 670 horsepower along the way. With the 5.5-liter V8 you get the new Chevrolet Corvette Z06 for free, which is built tightly around it. The Z06 is the sportiest version of the Corvette and focuses on better track work. However, the car is street legal.
The V8 in the Chevrolet Corvette Z06 is a clever piece of engineering, because no other production car has ever extracted so much power from a naturally aspirated V8. Not even Ferrari or AMG. The SLS Black Series also got 631 hp from a 6.2-liter V8 without turbos. Chevrolet’s V8 is equipped with a flat plane crank (or flat crankshaft), which aids in revs and power. The disadvantage is the distinctive sound, which not everyone is charmed by. The GT Black Series uses the same technique.
The differences between the Stingray and Chevrolet Corvette Z06
The powerful V8 isn’t the only thing that sets the Chevrolet Corvette Z06 apart from the Stingray. It’s 9.4 inches wider to accommodate the 345-millimeter-wide rear tires. The nose is different for better cooling and the four exhausts have been moved to the center. The option list even includes carbon fiber wheels that weigh 18.6 kilograms less than the normal wheels. The chassis is tuned specifically for the Z06 and the brakes are bigger. The ratios of the automatic transmission are shorter due to a modified final drive.
Then there is the Z07
Optionally, you can order a Z07 Performance Package. Due to the carbon fiber rear spoiler and other aerodynamic parts in this package, the car generates 333 kilos of downforce at 300 km/h. The Z07 also gets Michelin Cup 2 R tires, ceramic brake fluid from Brembo and an even sportier suspension setup. An automatic transmission is the only option for all versions. The prices are not yet known.
