The C-6 … The Next Level
The Look:
Produced for model years 2005 to 2013, the sixth generation Corvette was transitional…advancing the previous ‘Vette platform and paving the way to its most recent successors. Chevrolet was well aware that the C-5 series had run its course and its design was beginning to appear ‘long in the tooth.’ To upgrade the Corvette’s look, lead stylist Tom Peters and his team were tasked with what they referred to as “tightening the body.” This entailed shortening and slightly narrowing the vehicle’s overall dimensions while lengthening the wheelbase to improve ride. To do this, the stylists had to work closely with chief engineer Dave Hill’s group to modify the chassis, suspension architecture and drive train to fit the size requirements of the new C-6.
Power To The Pavement:
Under the hood of the early C-6 series was the all-new LS2 engine putting out 400 Hp and 400 lb.-ft. of torque. The power was transferred to the road with a six-speed manual gearbox or the available six-speed automatic. In 2008 the base engine was upgraded to the LS3 with displacement increasing to 6.2 liters, putting out 430 hp and 424 lb.-ft. of torque. The new engine, coupled with the C-6’s lighter weight, provided vastly improved performance, with 0-60 times of about 4 seconds.
Specs and Special Editions:
A true performance C-6 became available at the end of the first model year when the Z06 was unveiled. Its new LS7 engine was a 7.0 liter ‘small block’ cranking out 505 hp with 470 lb.-ft. of torque. Coupled with a weight-saving aluminum frame, stiffened springs, shocks and sway bars, along with improved brakes, the Z06 was a formidable sports car, and there was more to come. Announced in 2007 and available in the ‘08 model year, the C-6 ZR1 took the Z06 performance numbers to another level. The ZR1 introduced the LS9 6.2 liter engine, and fitted with an Eaton supercharger it produced a pavement pounding 638 hp with 604 lb.-ft. of torque.
The ‘427’ Revival:
Probably the most popular of the many C-6 model variations was the 427 Grand Sport coupe unveiled in ‘08, and the Grand Sport roadster that became available in 2013, the C-6 series final year. The 427’s share much of the Z-06 technology, including the six speed manual gearbox, carbon fiber components and magnetic ride suspension, but unlike the Z-06’s aluminum chassis, the Grand Sport utilized the heavier all-steel frame. Nonetheless, the 427 Grand Sport pumps out 505 hp and 470 lb.-ft. of torque that pulls seamlessly through the power curve, delivering true 0-60 performance times of 3.9 seconds. Years after their first appearance, the Grand Sport models have proved to be very desirable for their looks, ‘street cred’ and overall value.
Epilogue:
Corvette’s nine year model run of the C-6 series was a true transitional period for the marque. The C-6’s combined a fresh design, a lightened body and frame, several new engines and a host of handling and driving upgrades that made these Corvettes a truly desirable sports car…and the beat goes on.