5 Facts About the C5 Corvette Z06
1. A Natural Successor
The C5 Corvette Z06 would succeed the ZR-1 in 2001 and immediately go on to win rave reviews for its high-output LS6 engine and high performance ability on the track. Initially delivering an impressive 385 hp, the Z06 proved to be a top competitor to the ZR-1, besting the vehicle in every category except for overall speed.
>>Join the discussion about the C5 Corvette Z06 right here at CorvetteForum.
2. C5 Hardtop Convertible
Did you know a standard C5 hardtop weighs approximately 40 pounds more than a Z06? This decrease in weight is due largely in part to a number of well-received weight-saving measures, including a new titanium exhaust, lighter wheels and tires, thinner front, rear and side glass, as well as pared down sound proofing throughout the cabin.
>>Join the discussion about the C5 Corvette Z06 right here at CorvetteForum.
3. Increased Engine Output
C5 Corvette Z06 enthusiasts received a welcome surprise in 2002. The LS6 engine output jumped from a conservatively competitive 385 hp to a wildly impressive 405 hp. A more aggressive CFM air intake and camshaft lift and timing, as well as a few other upgrades – namely the valves and valve springs – lead to the boost in engine power.
>>Join the discussion about the C5 Corvette Z06 right here at CorvetteForum.
4. 2004 C5 Corvette Z06
In 2005, race car driver Dave Hill clocked an 8-minute lap while racing the 2004 C5 Z06 around the Nordschleife. Said to be one of the "toughest" and "most dangerous" racing circuits in the world by racing experts, Nordschleife is part of the famous Nurburgring complex in Cologne, Germany. This is a unique racing record for the 2004 C5 Z06.
Check out a driver's side point of view of what it's like to race around the Nordschleife circuit during race time in the YouTube clip featured here.
>>Join the discussion about the C5 Corvette Z06 right here at CorvetteForum.
5. Commemorative Edition
Fans of the C5 Corvette met the 2004 Z16 Commemorative Edition with high praise. Not only did the 2004 Z16 feature a carbon fiber hood, but it also came with a set of polished aluminum wheels as well as a number of other sought-after commemorative-edition upgrades, such as a special paint color and striping.
>>Join the discussion about the C5 Corvette Z06 right here at CorvetteForum.
For maintenance and repair guides, browse our technical How-to articles right here at Corvetteforum.com!