New supercharged LS9 V-8 with a bedeviling performance experience
2009 Corvette ZR1 brings new supercar benchmarks

Press release, Dubai, UAE,
6 February 2008.

The UFO sightings on desert highways were not of extraterrestrial craft – but they were of a low-flying object capable of seemingly otherworldly performance. So, the rumors were true.

Chevrolet officially announced the 2009 Corvette ZR1 – an American supercar that not only establishes new benchmarks for production-based power and performance, but challenges global competitors with a world-beating driving experience that also comes with a world-beating price of entry.

“The king has returned,” said Ed Peper, Chevrolet general manager. “The new ZR1 upends the notion of what an American supercar can deliver, with performance that trumps exotics that cost two, three or four times as much – and does so with the driving ease of a daily commuter.”

The 2009 Corvette ZR1 is Chevrolet's first entry into the world of supercars. It is the fastest and most powerful car ever built by General Motors. It is powered by a new, supercharged 6.2L LS9 V-8 that produces at least 620 horsepower and 823 N-m of torque, helping propel the car from 0-100 kph in less than 4 seconds and to a top speed of more than 320 kph.

Supporting its prodigious power output are race-bred elements that include a six-speed manual transmission with a dual-disc clutch; massive Brembo carbon-ceramic brakes; 19-inch front wheels and 20-inch rear wheels; the second-generation of GM's Magnetic Selective Ride Control; and stronger axles.

The ZR1 is instantly recognizable, thanks to unique exterior appointments that were developed to enable the car's performance, including extensive use of lightweight carbon fiber on the hood, fenders and roof. Some of the carbon fiber components, including the front splitter, rocker extensions and roof panel, feature a visible carbon fiber pattern coated with a unique, UV ray-blocking finish.

Distinguishing visual cues also include a polycarbonate window in the hood that offers a view of the LS9's intercooler below, new and wider front fenders that have a unique dual-vent design and a full-width rear spoiler. The large, 19- and 20-inch wheels also are specific to the ZR1.

The specialized components of the new ZR1 work harmoniously to deliver the most powerful and fastest automobile ever produced by General Motors.

“Preliminary testing shows the ZR1 bests the highly respected Corvette Z06 in every performance category, from acceleration and braking, to cornering grip and top speed,” said Peper. “It all boils down to the power-to-weight ratio and the ZR1’s is exceptional – better than the Porsche 911 GT2, the Ferrari 599 and even the Lamborghini LP640. In fact, the ZR1 is expected to be the first production Corvette to achieve a top speed of at least 320 km/h.”