Corvette C6 Z06 ZR1

2005 C6 Corvette

Corvette C6 2005
Compared to the fifth generation the new C6 gets an overhaul of the suspension geometry, all new bodywork with exposed headlamps (for the first time since 1962), a larger passenger compartment, and a larger 6.0 L (?366 cu in) engine. Overall, shorter and narrower than the C5, to gain wider appeal to the European market. The 6.0 L LS2 V8 produces 400 hp (298 kW) at 6000 rpm and 400 ft·lb (542 N·m) of torque at 4400 rpm. Its redline is increased to 6500 rpm. With a 0-60 time of less than 4.2 seconds, it places this sixth generation Corvette into a true supercar status.

The C6 retains the relatively good fuel economy of the C5, due in part to its relatively low drag coefficient and low curb weight, achieving 18/27 mpg (city/highway) when equipped with an automatic transmission. The manual version is slightly better at 18/28; like all manual transmission Corvettes since 1989, it is fitted with Computer Aided Gear Selection (CAGS) to improve fuel economy by requiring drivers to shift from 1st gear directly to 4th in low-speed/low-throttle conditions. This feature is what helps the C6 avoid the gas guzzler tax while achieving better fuel economy.

For 2008, the Corvette received a mild freshening: a new LS3 engine with displacement increased to 6.2 L (?378 cu in), resulting in 430 hp (321 kW) and 424 lb·ft (575 N·m) of torque (436 HP and 428 TQ if ordered with the optional performance exhaust). The 6-speed manual transmission also has improved shift linkage and a 0-60 time of 4.3 seconds, while the automatic is set up for quicker shifts giving the C6 Automatic a 0-60 time of 4.5 seconds, faster than any other production automatic Corvette. The interior was slightly updated and a new 4LT leather-wrap interior package was added. The wheels were also updated to a new five-spoke design.