What’s more outrageous than a Corvette ZR1? How about a Corvette ZR1 convertible?
Chevrolet chopped the top off the mighty and powerful beast last night ahead of the car’s debut at the LA Auto Show.
“The ZR1 is a no-compromise supercar,” said Corvette chief engineer Tadge Juechter. “Thanks to the strong structure, the suspension tuning between the coupe and convertible models is identical, meaning the ZR1 convertible offers the same benchmark performance, including a top speed of over 200 mph.”
That’s 208 mph, if you’re counting, only four less than the coupe. Weight difference between the two ZR1s is less than 60 pounds, mostly in the folding top hardware and not in any increases to the body structure. The convertible gets the same LT5 6.2-liter supercharged V8, rated to an SAE-certified 755 hp and 715 lb-ft of torque. It’s mated to the same seven-speed manual or, if you prefer, a paddle-shifted eight-speed automatic. Chevy lists 0-60 in “under 3.0 seconds” and quarter-mile in the high 10s with the automatic.
The LT5 has a more efficient intercooled supercharger system, with four new radiators to manage cooling on the ZR1 — part of 13 radiators in all for cooling oil, trans and differential. So maybe there won’t be any overheating problems. Let’s hope.
To get those 755 horses, the LT5 uses GM’s first dual fuel-injection system, with both direct injection and supplemental port injection to get fuel into the cylinders. The 2.65-liter supercharger is larger than that on the LT4 V8, but spins at a slightly slower speed, which reduces heat for lower intake temps.
The engine offers “the most aggressive sound ever for a production Corvette,” GM says, with a bimodal exhaust offering four distinct modes: stealth, tour, sport and track.
A unique aero package includes a stanchion-mounted low wing. An adjustable high wing is available as part of the ZTK Performance Package, the latter which includes a unique front splitter, Michelin Pilot Sport Cup 2 tires and specific chassis and Magnetic Ride Control tuning. The package makes 950 pounds of downforce, GM says.
The 2019 ZR1 convertible will be available in the spring for an entirely reasonable $123,995, including destination. Hey, the kids can go to public schools, can’t they?