2015 Corvette Z06 vs C6 Corvette ZR1 Dyno Comparison Shows Why the Z06 Feels Faster
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Once the automotive world found out GM was rolling out a supercharged 2015 Corvette Z06, people just couldn't resist the temptation to mentally compare this to the C6 ZR1. Giving in to this guilty pleasure, we are bringing you a dyno comparo between the two generations of blown 'Vettes.
The adjacent dyno sheet, which comes from the
Corvette Forum, shows us a battle between a stock 2010 ZR1 (pictured with the dark blue line - RunFile_001) and a just-as-stock 2015 C7 Z06 manual (shown in the lighter shade of blue - baseline.stock_001).
The first conclusion here is that the Z06's LT4 motor offers extra torque below 5,000 rpm. This is what has determined many people that have driven both to state the Z06 feels faster than the ZR1. To put it another way, the new car is more responsive and will thus tickle your funny bone more effectively.
Nonetheless, when it comes to racing, the superior low-rev muscle doesn't help all that much. Out on the track, you'll want to keep your engine high in the revs anyway, while when it comes to drag racing, the same applies once you pass 50 mph in first gear.
However, once you pass 5,250 rpm or so, the two motors show incredibly close results on the dyno.
Comparing the cars altogether
Pitting the ZR1's LS9 against the Z7 Z06' LT4 is one thing and comparing the cars is another thing.
So far, various
straight line testing sessions have shown the Z06 is faster up to 120-130 mph (200 km/h). The ZR1 takes the lead after that, with the gain arriving thanks to two factors. First of all, the Z06 is about 170 lbs (77 kg heavier), while the 2015 car also generates more downforce, something you really want when you're driving in the triple-digit area.
As for when we
factor in some bends, the more sophisticated suspension and better weight distribution, among others, allow the Z06 to turn better, while braking is also superior in the newer car.
All in all, the C7 Z06 is the better balanced car and it was only natural for it to be so.
This isn't a discussion about this car over that car... Of course if I was spending that kind of money my head would rule over my heart.
