Who’s the King now?
The most powerful Corvette ever produced by Chevrolet for public consumption was just introduced to the motoring world at a posh venue in Dubai.
Referred to by General Motors as “The King,” the ZR1 will be a 2019 model; it’ll also be the fastest Vette ever, with an estimated top speed of 340 km/h (210 mph) thanks to 755 thundering horsepower.
The 6.2L LT5 supercharged power plant will also churn-out 715 lb-ft of torque, due in part to its dual-fuel-injection system consisting of direct primary injection and secondary port injection.
For the first time in ZR1 history an automatic transmission will be available. The autobox will house eight gears while the ZR1’s manual gearbox will offer seven. Whether using paddle-shifters or the traditional stick, drivers will have plenty of cogs to work with.
Keeping the big engine cool during track tours is a total of 13 heat-exchangers, some fed by massive air inlets incorporated into the redesigned nose. Another Corvette “first” is the use of a downforce-enhancing front underwing.
The availability of a rear two-way adjustable high-wing capable of generating 950 lbs. of downforce will keep the ZR1 nailed to the asphalt for those serious track outings when drivers take it to the limit. The massive wing is tied into the chassis for greater strength and stability.
The 2019 Corvette ZR1 goes on sale next spring, which doesn’t give a lot of time to save pennies. In addition to being the fastest, expect this to be the most expensive Corvette ever!