The C4 Corvette ZR-1 is Maximum Rad
Chevrolet’s top dog Corvette in the early 1990s was this awesome four-cam screamer.
We’ve been extolling the virtues of the coolest C4 Corvette for a long time, but buckle in, because we’re about to do it again. This video from Rockstar Rides, hosted by the most Corvette Man, attempts to convey just how cool the ZR-1 was. There are just so many unique bits of information about the Corvette ZR-1 that it’s difficult to pack it all into a 6-minute video. His delivery is a little choppy in this video, but it’s certainly worth your time to watch, if only for the glorious LT5 exhaust note clips that are spread throughout.
The ZR-1 was no normal C4, featuring an incredible DOHC head design from Lotus, and assembly by Mercury Marine, this widebody ‘Vette’s motor was the jewel in its crown. More than the motor, though, the rear of the car was widened to accommodate an 11″ rear wheel and tire combination for improved cornering. Because the rear was widened, Chevrolet had to build special doors for the ZR-1 to fit the newly wider body. With a heaping power increase and a ton of tire packed under the fenders, this Corvette kept up with the likes of Lamborghini, Ferrari, and Lotus in its day, setting all kinds of speed and handling records along the way.
Did you know that the ZR-1 had a ‘valet mode’ to reduce the power level of the engine? You do now. We’re not sure we believe the story of the man who drove his ZR-1 in valet mode for eight years, but the world of automobiles, especially Corvettes, is filled with tall tales like this. Which Corvette tall tale is your favorite? Let us know by chiming in on the forums.
