Corvette C6 ZR1

 

The ZR1 was the top-of-the-line and craziest version of the C6-generation Corvette. The C6 ZR1 debuted in 2009 and remained in production until 2013. It was once the ultimate standard for the Corvette, but that is no longer the case as the C7 Z06, C7 ZR1, and even the mid-engine C8 Stingray all outperform the most hardcore C6 model. Powering the C6 ZR1 Corvette is a supercharged 6.2-liter LS9 V8 making 638 horsepower and 604 lb-ft of torque paired to either a 6-speed manual or a 6-speed automatic. It launches from 0 to 60 mph in 3.4 seconds and can reach a top speed of around 200 mph. What sets the ZR1 apart from the other C6 Corvette models are its carbon fiber hood, splitter, and fenders, along with its polycarbonate window in the center of the hood displaying the LS9 V8 intercooler. Compared to other C6 Corvette models, the ZR1 has larger wheels and stickier tires. Magnetic Ride suspension is standard on the C6 ZR1, which automatically adjusts its stiffness to vehicle movement and road conditions. Carbon-ceramic brakes are also standard on the C6 ZR1. On the other hand, the ZR1's interior isn't much different from those of other C6 Corvette models. The Corvette C6 ZR1 carried a starting price close to $100k when new, while used examples are often valued in the $50k-60k range. In all, the C6-gen Corvette ZR1 is an impressive car and one of the coolest Corvettes ever made. I see way less ZR1s than other Corvette models in general; this goes for all generations of the ZR1 (C4, C6, C7), not just the C6, and adds to the ZR1's cool factor for me.