The Birth of the Chevrolet Corvette C5 Z06 Story

  In 2001 the Z06, a successor to the C5 made its debut, a nod to the high performance  version of the C2 Corvette of the 1960s. The Z0 models replace the FRC hardtop, 1999-2000, models as the highest performance C5 Corvette. Instead of a heavier double overhead cam engine like the ZR1, it  used an LS6, a high output version of the standard LS1 Corvette engine producing 385 hp. Although the Z06's total power output was less than that of the last ZR1's, the Z06 was lighter and therefore quicker than the ZR1. Despite these specifications, the ZR1 still had a higher top speed, thus maintaining its "King of the Hill" status.

  Chevrolet found that, as with the ZR1 Corvette, added power output did the Z06 Corvette  little good without platform modifications to bring the rest of the car up to par. A hardtop body, upgraded suspension, larger wheels and tires, a new six speed manual transmission, along with improved gearing and functional brake cooling ducts, all became part of the total package. The Z06 Corvette is 38 lb lighter than the previous hardtop C5 Corvette thanks to a titanium exhaust, from the catalytic converter back, thinner glass, lighter wheels, and a lighter battery. From 2002 onward, the Z06 produced 405 hp thanks to minor engine modifications including a more aggressive camshaft profile, lightweight sodium filled exhaust valves, stiffer valve springs, and deletion of the precats. Many dynamometer tests have proven that Chevrolet underrated the engine by 20 hp giving it a total of 425 hp.

  The 2002 Z06 Corvette also received revised rear shock valving and steel links to replace plastic ones of the 2001 model. An Electron blue color replaced Speedway white. The HUD became standard, and the previous forged wheels were replaced by lighter spun cast ones. The fender Z06 badges bear "405 hp" on them. The 2003 models received special silver 50th anniversary badges and revised headliner. Later 2003 models received a more durable steel shift fork instead of aluminum.

  GM claimed that 405 hp versions of the Z06 Corvette could make the 0 to 60 run in 3.9 seconds and through the quarter mile in 12.4 seconds. In the hands of experienced drivers the 2002 to 2004 Z06 has made 11 second passes. The current quarter mile record is 11.7. The car's top speed of 176 mph was achieved in 5th gear at 6,500 rpm redline, as 6th gear was an overdrive and or economy gear. It proved to be a well rounded track vehicle as well, with the ability to do more than simply accelerate. Thanks in part to its upgraded suspension system, the Z06 Corvette is capable of holding its own against contemporary versions of the Dodge Viper and even the Porsche 911 Turbo around a road track.

  The 2004 Z06 Commemorative Edition Corvette came with a carbon fiber hood which saved some weight and also received polished aluminum wheels. In addition it was equipped with a Nürburgring tested suspension tuning to improve handling, along with an exclusive Le Mans blue color.