This story comes from the 01/28/08 issue of AutoWeek magazine:
Cynics might say the 2009 ZR1 is nothing more than a Corvette with a bad-boy V8 stuffed into the engine bay–a stance taken initially by some AW editors, who questioned its Best in Show worthiness. But that line of thinking sells this supercar short.
Yes, the supercharged 6.2-liter LS9 will produce at least 620 hp and 600 lb-ft of torque, putting the ZR1 in the upper echelon of the numbers game, no matter who comes out to play. It also features an adjustable suspension, carbon-fiber bodywork, some unique exterior pieces, carbon-ceramic Brembo brakes, variable steering and a close-ratio six-speed gearbox.
The sum is a whole lot greater than the collective parts: This is a JATO rocket on wheels that moves the Corvette up yet another rung on the performance-car ladder and leaves almost all competitors jinking like an F-22 Raptor to avoid certain destruction. Perhaps more significant, new fuel-economy standards that mandate a corporate average fuel economy of 35 mpg by 2020 likely mean that Chevy–or any domestic automaker-will not produce a car remotely comparable to this one for years to come. So remember the 2008 North American International Auto Show as the first time you laid eyes on the most balls-to-the-wall factory Corvette of all time.
Still not convinced? Walk the floor, take everything in, and consider: Badge snobbery and concept cars aside, there is no other machine parked on the Cobo show floor that we look forward to driving more than the ZR1. Case closed.
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