2001 chevrolet Corvette Z06 - Brief Article

Automotive Industries, Nov, 2000 by John Peter

Think of it as a Viper with manners. In everyday traffic the Z06 doesn't differ much from any other C5 Corvette, but let loose the wrath of the ZL6 V-8 and it becomes, as one engineer friend put it, "progressively nastier."

Save for its bright red valve covers, the new engine is a twin to the LS1. Chevy tweaked just about every area of the new motor to increase horsepower to 385 at 6,000 rpm and torque to 385 pounds-feet at 4,800 rpm. There's a new high-profile camshaft, stronger valve springs and larger fuel injectors. The aluminum block casting adds cast-in "windows" which allow better bay-to-bay breathing.

Due to the demands of cornering at more than one lateral G, the PCV system is incorporated into the engine's unique aluminum valley -- which has composite oil-separating baffles and PVC plumbing.

Other powertrain enhancements include thin-wall, cast-iron exhaust manifolds, a stronger driveshaft and a new clutch.

The new M12 6-speed manual transmission is unique to the Z06 and has more aggressive gearing to increase torque multiplication in most forward gears.

Handling is improved thanks to a larger front stabilizer bar, stiffer rear leaf spring, revised camber settings and wider alloy wheels.

The Z06 only comes in coupe form. Most folks I've talked to would love to see a fastback, but you can make mine a convertible. There's no better feeling than the wind in your hair at 160 mph.