How does the 2019 ZR1 compare to the Z06 Chevrolet Corvette C7?

When comparing the C7 Corvette Z06 to the 2019 C7 ZR1, you are looking at two very capable track cars, but the ZR1 is a significant step up in power, cooling, and aerodynamics.

Here is how the two platforms break down side-by-side:

Engine and Power

The Z06 uses the supercharged 6.2L LT4, while the ZR1 gets the heavily upgraded LT5. The ZR1 produces 755 horsepower at the crank ¹. On a dyno, a stock ZR1 will put down around 650 horsepower and 650 ft-lbs of torque to the wheels, which allows it to out-muscle a Z06 every time assuming equal traction ⁶. To get a Z06 to hang with a stock ZR1 in a straight line, it generally requires basic bolt-ons like an intake, catless X-pipe, and potentially a tune to hit the ~600+ whp mark ⁶.

Cooling and Aerodynamics

Cooling is the biggest functional differentiator. The C7 Z06 is notorious for heat soak and overheating issues when pushed hard on a track ¹. GM engineered the ZR1 specifically to solve this, giving it a completely redesigned front bumper with massive air inlets to feed additional heat exchangers ⁵. The ZR1 also features a much more aggressive aero package, including an optional chassis-mounted high rear wing for extreme downforce ⁵.

Drivetrain and Chassis

The two cars share a lot of driveline architecture, but the ZR1's development resulted in strengthened components that GM eventually rolled out to the rest of the C7 lineup.

• Differential: The ZR1 development led GM to increase the load capacity of the differential spider gears using a different tooth profile, an upgrade that was applied to all 2019+ Corvettes ³.
• Suspension: GM strengthened the rear upper control arm for the ZR1 manual cars, which also trickled down to the rest of the Corvette line ³.
• Axles/Prop Shaft: The half shafts and prop shaft assembly on the ZR1 are direct carry-overs from the Z06, as GM determined the shock-loading limits (like side-stepping the clutch) were similar between the two cars ³.

Brakes

If you are looking at parts interchangeability, the 2019 ZR1 front rotors and brake pads are a direct bolt-on upgrade for Z06 models equipped with the Z07 package ⁷.

Drivability

Around town at normal speeds, owners report you won't notice a massive difference between the two ². However, the ZR1 does feature a slightly upgraded interior and is generally considered more comfortable for street driving, whereas the Z06 delivers a slightly more raw feel ².