We Have New C7 Corvette ZR1 Spy Shots!
Well, well, well, what do my little eyes see? It appears that we have photos of a new C7 Corvette ZR1, complete with a spoiler big enough to launch a 747. The latest spy shots of what we are assuming is the new ZR1 just arrived, and we get a good close look at the car. Likely the first things that will stick out to most of you (besides that huge wing) are the new wheel design, the classic blue brake calipers, and a much larger hood bulge than that found on the Z06.
Things you may need to peek a little closer to notice include the moved hood vent that is larger, the wider side sills, lower nose, and a more aggressive front splitter. It also wouldn’t surprise me if there were nose canards like those on the Z07 performance package hiding under that front camo. It might just be me, but it also looks like the rear venting over the fenders, used to cool the brakes and differential, looks a little larger too.
But now we get to the big wing. It’s as big as some dinner tables, covered in sculpts and points to maximize airflow, and it points to the idea that Chevy is following the Viper ACR mindset of overcoming traction problems with prodigious applications of downforce. Who knows, maybe Chevy will even chase some of those track records the Viper currently possesses. And for those of you keeping score, this is exactly why I think Chevy needs a mid-engined car: when your only course of action is to slap giant wings onto your car to make it driveable, you need a new solution.
Along with the giant-winged red tester, we have shots of a silver car that includes a much smaller wing. This makes me think that the new ZR1 will follow the same pattern of the current Z06 by offering a base car with the small wing, and then a much more extreme “track” version with the insane aero additions. Only time will tell, I guess.
We still have no reliable info on what is hiding under that massive new hood bulge, but expect a slightly larger supercharger on the LT4, with better intercoolers to keep temps in check. If I were a betting man, I would expect horsepower to be in the 710-730 range. With prototypes this far along, expect to see the production car debut soon. Best bet is the 2017 Detroit Auto Show in January.
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