What We Know so Far About the "Big Wing" Corvette (photos)
Seen testing with only mild camouflage, this Corvette sporting a massive rear wing is still a bit of a mystery. Why the huge spoiler? Is there something special under the hood? Time will reveal all, but here's what we know now.
1. Leaked shots of "Big Wing" Corvette
Spy shots of Chevrolet's latest Corvette taken earlier this year have gotten people talking about what the legendary brand may have in store next. It didn't take long for the nickname "Big Wing" to stick, thanks to the big prominent spoiler. While Corvette will soon see a reinvention and rumored mid-engine design with the upcoming C8 generation, the racing-styled aero of the "Big Wing" quickly sparked theories that we were seeing the latest ZR1. Even with that theory all but confirmed at this point, it's going to be hard to shake the nickname until the official release is given.
2. ZR1 for the C7 generation?
The C7 Corvette has had a relatively shorter life as far as Corvette generations go, but even with the C8 on the way, there's no doubt that these past few years in Corvette history will go down as a bold revival. If history is our guide, Chevrolet only brings out the ZR1 name to play when they really mean it. A new ZR1 for the C7 generation can only mean big things for Corvette, since the current base model is already so good, and the Z06 rivals a lot of supercars.
3. Overpowering the competition
Perhaps the most impressive thing about Corvette has been its ability to remain at the cutting-edge of technology for such a long time. Chevrolet wouldn't have gotten the Vette's performance to this stage if they weren't aware of their competitors. Few owners find a use for the upper performance limits of a Corvette, but with Dodge recently having broken the 700 horsepower barrier with the Hellcat, Chevy needs something better at least for bragging rights and marketing. We've heard estimates that the ZR1 may reach 750 horsepower, but it may go even higher if they have the Dodge Demon in their sights. The Ferrari F12 TDF has a whopping 769 HP, so the ZR1 may be gunning for 800 hp, and considering that the ZR1 will likely be less than half the F12's price, the power difference seems that much greater.
4. DOHC LT5 V8 engine?
There were leaked documents last year suggesting General Motors' plan for a new powerplant in the Corvettes, but might it be a return to a DOHC 32 valve unit like the 1990s ZR1? The ZR1 has received insider confirmation on various internet sites that it will come packed with the new LT5 6.2 liter V8 engine. While an official GM document has suggested the LT5 is naturally aspirated, there's rumors that the ZR1 will come strapped with a TVS R2650 blower to add the boost. Then again, this is all still technically speculation, and while it may turn out to be true, we won't have proof until GM release a statement themselves.
5. A Last Hurrah for the Front Engine Corvette
The C7 generation has been kind to Corvette fans with street car performance that was unthinkable 20 years ago, while still being a relative bargain. This much is clear, if they're already testing models on the open road, this version of the Corvette, whatever it is, is just about ready for mass production. It wont be long before we'll get to test these street legal racers out for ourselves. Nothing to do, but wait for the next spy shot or leaked specification to come out.
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