2024 Corvette ZR1: Unveiling the Ultimate V8 Supercar with 1,064 HP

The Bugatti Veyron’s Legacy

Nearly 20 years ago, the Bugatti Veyron burst onto the scene with a W16 engine producing 987 hp (736 kW / 1,001 PS). This was an unthinkable number for a comfortable, production car, but today it’s being surpassed by a Corvette.

Meet the All-New ZR1

We’re talking about the all-new ZR1, which defies expectations thanks to a twin-turbo 5.5-liter flat-plane crank V8 engine. It produces a staggering 1,064 hp (793 kW / 1,079 PS) and 828 lb-ft (1,121 Nm) of torque. This engine, known as the LT7, has a lot in common with the LT6 that resides in the Corvette Z06 but has been extensively upgraded to handle the new turbochargers and added performance.

Engine and Transmission Upgrades

Highlights include a larger combustion chamber and new head castings with unique ports. The valve timing and lift profile have also been optimized for forced induction, while there’s a new intake and “intelligent anti-lag engine calibration techniques.” The mill also sports unique pistons and connecting rods as well as a secondary fuel injection system. The eight-speed dual-clutch transmission has been thoroughly revised with wider profile gears, stronger shafts, and improved lubrication to handle the massive torque of the LT7.

Performance and Speed

Thanks to all these changes, Corvette executive chief engineer Tadge Juechter told us the ZR1 “pulls like a freight train.” While Chevrolet wasn’t ready to give hard numbers, officials said the car should be able to hit a top speed “comfortably” above 215 mph (346 km/h). They suggested the top speed could be significantly higher and confirmed the model won’t be electronically limited.

Track Performance

Sticking with the performance theme, four test drivers hit 200 mph (322 km/h) on the Nürburgring during their first outing with the car. On the drag strip, the ZR1 should be able to run the quarter mile in less than 9.7 seconds at 150 mph (241 km/h). This estimate suggests it would be slower than the Dodge Challenger SRT Demon 170, which accomplished the same task in 8.91 seconds at 151.17 mph (243 km/h).

Lightweight Design and Braking System

Despite the Demon being a quarter-mile bruiser, the times are a little surprising considering the ZR1 is significantly lighter. The coupe weighs 3,670 lbs (1,665 kg) dry, while the convertible comes in at 3,758 lbs (1,705 kg). When it comes time to stop, owners will be thankful for a unique carbon ceramic braking system with discs measuring 15.7 inches (400 mm) front and 15.4 inches (390 mm) rear. These enable the ZR1 to go from 80-200-80 mph (129-322-129 km/h) in a mere 24.5 seconds, 22% quicker than the C7 Corvette ZR1 and 53% faster than the C6 Corvette ZR1.

Exterior Features

Despite having 404 hp (301 kW / 410 PS) more than a Ford GT, the Corvette ZR1 is surprisingly restrained. However, there are a handful of clues this isn’t your run-of-the-mill model. One of the most obvious is the flow-through hood, allowing air to enter the front grille, flow through an intercooler, and exit the hood to aid cooling while increasing front downforce. Buyers will also find a carbon fiber roof and a small spoiler with adjustable wickers, alongside 20- and 21-inch carbon fiber or aluminum wheels wrapped in Michelin Pilot Sport 4S tires.

Optional Packages

The optional ZTK performance package promises to turn the ZR1 into a “true track weapon,” featuring a massive rear wing, front dive planes, and a hood-mounted Gurney lip. Underneath, the front underwing is replaced by underbody strakes to increase downforce. This package also includes stiffer springs, revised dampers, and Michelin Pilot Sport Cup 2R tires. Alternatively, the Carbon Aero package includes all the aerodynamic styling changes from the ZTK performance package but nothing else, allowing the car to generate over 1,200 lbs (544 kg) of downforce at top speed.

Interior and Technology

If you’ve been in a C8 Corvette, the interior will feel instantly recognizable, as not much has changed. Buyers will find ZR1 badging on the steering wheel, sill plates, and interior plaque. There’s also a boost gauge and unique door panel stitching on the 3LZ variant. Expect a familiar 12-inch digital instrument cluster and an 8-inch infotainment system with Google built-in, supportive seats, and plenty of carbon fiber trim.

Production and Availability

The Corvette ZR1 will go into production next year and be built in Bowling Green, Kentucky. Officials introduced the model early to test prototypes without camouflage, as the disguise impacts the car’s performance. There’s no word on pricing yet, but the model will slot above the Z06, which begins at $110,100.