CarBuyersNoteBook

2009 Corvette ZR1

The long awaited 2009 Chevy Corvette ZR1 is now available for order at Chevy dealerships, although it won’t come cheap, or easy. The LS9 motor produces 620 horsepower at 6500 rpm and 595 pound-feet of torque at 4000 rpm. The Corvette ZR1 comes with a supercharged 6.2-liter V8 connected to a close-ratio six-speed manual gearbox with a new high-capacity clutch, giving the ZR1 more power than any other Corvette to date. GM has not disclosed specific performance numbers, but the company admits a top speed of 200 mph is very likely. Loyal Corvette customers will care about that, but almost certainly won’t hold off ordering the ZR1 for want of an upper limit.

The 20 inch wheels are the largest on any production Corvette in GM’s history, with chrome optional. A luxury inside trim package is available that includes power-adjustable leather-trimmed sport seats, leather-wrapped interior elements (including the dashboard), a navigation system, and Bluetooth connectivity. The Chevy Corvette ZR1 has a base MSRP of $103,970.