Autoblog http://www.autoblog.com Autoblog http://www.blogsmithmedia.com/www.autoblog.com/media/feedlogo.gif Autoblog http://www.autoblog.com en-us Copyright 2013 Weblogs, Inc. The contents of this feed are available for non-commercial use only. Blogsmith http://www.blogsmith.com/<![CDATA[Next Corvette ZR1 to get 700 horsepower?]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2013/02/19/next-corvette-zr1-to-get-700-horsepower/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/02/19/next-corvette-zr1-to-get-700-horsepower/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/02/19/next-corvette-zr1-to-get-700-horsepower/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

2014 Chevrolet Corvette

Word has it General Motors may offer as much as 700 horsepower in the C7 Corvette ZR1. Motor Trend reports the next Corvette Z06 will continue to rely on its naturally aspirated 7.0-liter V8 engine for thrust, but the lump will deliver substantially more power. How much more? MT says the engine could deliver up to 600 ponies. That's a jump of 95 horsepower over the current Z06, though no figures have been finalized as of yet. Right now, GM is reportedly waiting to see what sort of grunt it can glean from the next ZR1.

The automaker has already made it clear it will resurrect the LT5 name for the new supercharged V8, and if GM is already pulling 600 from the Z06, the big dog ZR1 would theoretically offer 700 horsepower. Either way, the range-topping Corvette will be suitably insulated from its less potent siblings. Stay tuned. We aren't likely to see the Z06 for at least a year, with the ZR1 trailing along at some point there after.

Next Corvette ZR1 to get 700 horsepower? originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 19 Feb 2013 18:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>c7 zr1chevroletchevrolet corvettecorvettecorvette z06stingrayz06zr1Tue, 19 Feb 2013 18:30:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20467840/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2013/02/19/next-corvette-zr1-to-get-700-horsepower/20467840/article-detail.xml 20467840 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/02/2014-chevrolet-corvette-628_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/02/2014-chevrolet-corvette-628.jpg <![CDATA[Helicopter crashes on <i>Top Gear Korea</i> set while chasing Corvette ZR1]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2013/02/11/helicopter-crashes-on-top-gear-korea-set-while-chasing-co/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/02/11/helicopter-crashes-on-top-gear-korea-set-while-chasing-co/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/02/11/helicopter-crashes-on-top-gear-korea-set-while-chasing-co/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Top Gear Korea helicopter vs. ZR1 screencap (before crash)

The formula of Top Gear Korea is seemingly about the same as it is everywhere else in the world, including the flagship British original: involve interesting cars in fantastical situations with charismatic hosts. That prescription has proved to be pretty reliable over the years, and has lead to some truly memorable and exciting pieces of television.

Something like that was undoubtedly what the Korean producers were after when they lined up this segment - a drag race between a Chevrolet Corvette ZR1 and an AH1 Cobra military helicopter. The planners almost certainly did not expect the filming of the segment to go quite as wrong as it actually did, with the helicopter actually crashing into the dirt after the "drag race" had been completed. Thankfully, we're told that no one was seriously injured in the crash, but the footage, in the video below, is pretty damn chilling to watch, nevertheless.

Continue reading Helicopter crashes on Top Gear Korea set while chasing Corvette ZR1

Helicopter crashes on Top Gear Korea set while chasing Corvette ZR1 originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 11 Feb 2013 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2012 chevrolet corvette zr1ah1 cobrachevroletchevycorvettecorvette zr1helicopter crashtop geartop gear koreavideozr1Mon, 11 Feb 2013 10:00:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20456212/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2013/02/11/helicopter-crashes-on-top-gear-korea-set-while-chasing-co/20456212/article-detail.xml 20456212 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/02/top-gear-korea-helicopter-crash-628_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/02/top-gear-korea-helicopter-crash-628.jpg <![CDATA[Bob Lutz brings Destino, a ZR1-powered Karma, to Detroit]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2013/01/14/vl-automotive-destino-detroit-2013/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/01/14/vl-automotive-destino-detroit-2013/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/01/14/vl-automotive-destino-detroit-2013/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,



There's nothing wrong with the Fisker Karma that a honkin' American V8 engine won't fix. At least according to Bob Lutz, it seems. Called the VL Automotive Destino, this machine is the brainchild of industrialist Gilbert Villereal and the aforementioned Lutz, and is intended to compete with such well-regarded performance sedans as the Porsche Panamera and Aston Martin Rapide.

As you can see, there are some significant styling changes made in the conversion from Karma to Destino, notably in the front and rear fascias, including exhaust tips out back and a new hood that's raised to accommodate what lies underneath. The interior is also reskinned and can be further customized by the buyer.

But it's the engineering work under that shapely skin that's truly noteworthy. Replacing the electric motor, battery pack and turbocharged range extender is one 638-horsepower supercharged LS9 V8 borrowed from the Chevrolet Corvette ZR1 driving the rear wheels through either a manual or automatic transmission. Power numbers are identical to the ZR1 and while fuel economy is not yet known, we can expect is to be a bit lower than the Corvette's 15 city / 24 highway.

The Destino will be built at VL Automotive's headquarters in Auburn Hills, Michigan, and it will be delivered through still-in-development distribution network starting this summer. Pricing is expected to be around $180,000, which is significantly more than the Karma's $102,000 base price. Check out our high-res image gallery live from the Detroit Auto Show above and the press release below.

Continue reading Bob Lutz brings Destino, a ZR1-powered Karma, to Detroit

Bob Lutz brings Destino, a ZR1-powered Karma, to Detroit originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 14 Jan 2013 10:24:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2013 detroit auto showbob lutzchevroletcorvettedestinodetroitdetroit 2013fiskergilbert villerealkarmavl automotivezr1zr1 fiskerzr1fiskerMon, 14 Jan 2013 10:24:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20428050/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2013/01/14/vl-automotive-destino-detroit-2013/20428050/article-detail.xml 20428050 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/01/000-vl-automotive-destino-opt_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/01/000-vl-automotive-destino-opt.jpg <![CDATA[2013 Chevrolet Corvette ZR1 sets lap record at Laguna Seca, beats new SRT Viper]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/12/17/2013-chevrolet-corvette-zr1-sets-lap-record-at-laguna-seca-beat/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/12/17/2013-chevrolet-corvette-zr1-sets-lap-record-at-laguna-seca-beat/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/12/17/2013-chevrolet-corvette-zr1-sets-lap-record-at-laguna-seca-beat/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Racer Randy Pobst with 2013 Corvette ZR1, 2013 Viper GTS

As you may have heard, Motor Trend recently threw the 2013 Chevrolet Corvette ZR1 and the 2013 SRT Viper at each other. And while it was somewhat shocking to hear that the aging ZR1 actually managed to narrowly walk away as the winner of this particular scrap, something else interesting happened during the dust up. Motor Trend called on pro driver Randy Pobst to thrash the two bruisers around Laguna Seca, and thrash he did. Pobst managed to bolt out a time of 1:33.70 in the ZR1, besting the old record of 1:33.99 set by Chris Winkler some three years ago. Winkler managed the task in a 2010 Dodge Viper ACR.

Pobst managed to pull down a 1:35.77 in the SRT Viper, making it the sixth-fastest car M/T has ever put through its paces at Laguna Seca. Don't shed a tear for the terror from SRT, though - the 2013 Viper is still quicker than hardware like the Ferrari 458 Italia, Lexus LFA and Nissan GT-R.

Unsurprisingly, the record-breaking story has triggered defensive posturing from the SRT camp, with none other than brand boss Ralph Gilles leaving comments on his Twitter feed like "There is a lot more left in the car, Randy has always struggled with the Viper" and "We've tested both cars at several tracks and never seen a gap like that. Many drivers needlessly fear the Viper.

The ZR1 may have drawn first blood on its way out the door, but one thing is for sure - this is only the first skirmish in what looks to be a long and highly entertaining battle.

2013 Chevrolet Corvette ZR1 sets lap record at Laguna Seca, beats new SRT Viper originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 17 Dec 2012 19:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2013 chevrolet corvette zr12013 srt viper gtschevroletchevrolet corvette zr1corvettecorvette zr1laguna secamotor trendpobstrandy pobstsrtsrt viper gtsviper gtszr1Mon, 17 Dec 2012 19:30:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20405332/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/12/17/2013-chevrolet-corvette-zr1-sets-lap-record-at-laguna-seca-beat/20405332/article-detail.xml 20405332 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/12/probst-at-laguna-628_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/12/probst-at-laguna-628.jpg <![CDATA[Guy Fieri to drive Corvette ZR1 pace car in Indy 500]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/05/16/guy-fieri-to-drive-corvette-zr1-pace-car-in-indy-500/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/05/16/guy-fieri-to-drive-corvette-zr1-pace-car-in-indy-500/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/05/16/guy-fieri-to-drive-corvette-zr1-pace-car-in-indy-500/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Celebrity chef Guy Fieri with Cadillac CTS-VDiners, Drive-ins and Dives persona Guy Fieri is making more news with garages these days than kitchens. The Food Network host, who recently had his Lamborghini Gallardo stolen and then recovered in a teen's storage container, has been selected to drive the 2013 Chevrolet Corvette ZR1 pace car at the Indy 500 this year.

Guy's an admitted car fan, and he should feel at home in the ZR1; he owns seven Chevrolet models that span the decades from 1968 to 2011, and a Cadillac Escalade ESV. He'll be pacing the field in the 638-horsepower special edition Arctic White coupe on Sunday, May 27 at noon EST.

Guy Fieri to drive Corvette ZR1 pace car in Indy 500 originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 16 May 2012 13:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2012 indianapolis 5002012 indy 5002013 chevrolet corvette zr12013 chevrolet corvette zr1 indy pace carchevroletchevrolet corvette zr1corvettecorvette zr1fieriguy fieriindianapolis 500indy 500zr1Wed, 16 May 2012 13:29:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20239070/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/05/16/guy-fieri-to-drive-corvette-zr1-pace-car-in-indy-500/20239070/article-detail.xml 20239070 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/05/guy-fieri-with-cadillac-cts-v_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/05/guy-fieri-with-cadillac-cts-v.jpg <![CDATA[ZR1 versus C6.R racer in Corvette straight-line race]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/03/03/zr1-versus-c6-r-racer-in-corvette-straight-line-race/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/03/03/zr1-versus-c6-r-racer-in-corvette-straight-line-race/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/03/03/zr1-versus-c6-r-racer-in-corvette-straight-line-race/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

ZR1 vs. C6.R

Road & Track lined up the Corvette ZR1 next to the Corvette C6.R ALMS racing car to see how they'd compete in a straight line. Notice we didn't say "drag" or "drag race," since this isn't at the track and we can't tell the distance of the contest.

The C6.R is based on the ZR1, but comes in with about 500 horsepower to push its 2,745-pound weight and uses a sequential transmission and slicks. The ZR1 works with 638 horses but has 3,345 pounds to get going through a six-speed manual transmission and street tires.

The race starts at 0:15 seconds and ends at 0:23. You'll find the winner in the video after the jump.

Continue reading ZR1 versus C6.R racer in Corvette straight-line race

ZR1 versus C6.R racer in Corvette straight-line race originally appeared on Autoblog on Sat, 03 Mar 2012 20:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>c6.rchevrolet corvette c6rchevrolet corvette zr1corvettecorvette c6.rcorvette zr1videoyoutubezr1Sat, 03 Mar 2012 20:01:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20185147/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/03/03/zr1-versus-c6-r-racer-in-corvette-straight-line-race/20185147/article-detail.xml 20185147 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/03/corvettezr1vsc6r_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/03/corvettezr1vsc6r.jpg <![CDATA[2012 Chevrolet Corvette ZR1 [w/video]]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/02/14/2012-chevrolet-corvette-zr1-review-video/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/02/14/2012-chevrolet-corvette-zr1-review-video/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/02/14/2012-chevrolet-corvette-zr1-review-video/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Successful In Its Mission, But Not As The World's Greatest Sports Car

2012 Chevrolet Corvette ZR1

Adhered to the Hamilton Hall dorm wall at Wright State University is a glossy poster of a jet-black sports car. It hangs low over an unmade bed, its corner blemished with a slight tear from an errantly placed thumbtack during orientation week.

A young engineering undergraduate, sitting at a desk just a few feet away, is staring directly at the poster. Instead of reviewing for an upcoming exam, his eyes remain fixated on the vehicle's sleek bodywork, ominous quad exhaust pipes and Brembo carbon-ceramic brakes. Locked in a trance, the student daydreams about what it would be like to drive the sinister-looking monster.

Unbeknown to that 19-year-old scholar, and thousands of miles from Wright State University, Autoblog holds the key to the vehicle pictured on that very poster. It is the Chevrolet Corvette ZR1. With a 638-horsepower supercharged V8 mated to a six-speed manual transmission and a top speed of 205 miles per hour, it is the most powerful production car in General Motors' history.

The ZR1 has been upgraded and enhanced for 2012, so what is it like to drive America's premier sports car on public roads? Can the beast be reasonably tamed? Be pleased to learn that this evil brute is nearly everything expected, a little less and then a whole lot more.

Continue reading 2012 Chevrolet Corvette ZR1 [w/video]

2012 Chevrolet Corvette ZR1 [w/video] originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 14 Feb 2012 11:57:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2012 chevrolet corvette zr12012 corvette zr12012 zr12012+corvette2012corvettec7+corvettec7corvettechevroletchevrolet+corvette+zr1+2012chevroletcorvettezr12012corvettecorvette zr1corvette zr1 reviewcorvette+c7corvette+zr1+2012corvettec7corvettezr12012reviewreviewsvettevideozr1zr1 reviewTue, 14 Feb 2012 11:57:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20171070/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/02/14/2012-chevrolet-corvette-zr1-review-video/20171070/article-detail.xml 20171070 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/02/2012-chevrolet-corvette-zr1-review_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/02/2012-chevrolet-corvette-zr1-review.jpg <![CDATA[You now live in a world with a ZR1-powered pickup truck]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/07/12/you-now-live-in-a-world-with-a-zr1-powered-pickup-truck/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/07/12/you-now-live-in-a-world-with-a-zr1-powered-pickup-truck/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/07/12/you-now-live-in-a-world-with-a-zr1-powered-pickup-truck/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

ls9-powered chevrolet silverado

Stuffing engine A into automobile B has been part an enthusiast rite of passage for decades. Fast-forward to 2011, and someone has finally jumped to engine Z. Rather, they've taken the engine from a Chevrolet Corvette ZR1, and slung it betwixt the front fenders of a Silverado pickup truck.

Ford Lightning owners, Dodge Ram SRT owners and Toyota Tundra TRD owners... bow to your new master.

For those of you not familiar with this particular engine (how?), allow us to enlighten you. What you're looking at above is the LS9 6.2-liter supercharged V8 engine. The power output is rated at 638 horses and 604 pound-feet of torque, and all that forward go is now propelling the rear wheels of a Silverado pickup.

Someone get sandbags, high-octane fuel and a video camera, because we want to see this rig run down the drag strip. Our hats off to the mad minds at Houston-based Fastlane for their unholy creation.

You now live in a world with a ZR1-powered pickup truck originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 12 Jul 2011 10:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>corvette zr1fastlanels9ls9 silveradosupercharged silveradozr1zr1 pickup truckzr1 silveradozr1 truckTue, 12 Jul 2011 10:59:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19988710/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2011/07/12/you-now-live-in-a-world-with-a-zr1-powered-pickup-truck/19988710/article-detail.xml 19988710 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/07/zr1-truck_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/07/zr1-truck.jpg <![CDATA[2012 Corvette ZR1 shaves six seconds off its 'Ring time]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/06/09/2012-corvette-zr1-shaves-six-seconds-off-its-ring-time/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/06/09/2012-corvette-zr1-shaves-six-seconds-off-its-ring-time/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/06/09/2012-corvette-zr1-shaves-six-seconds-off-its-ring-time/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

2012 corvette zr1 runs the nuburgring
2012 Chevrolet Corvette ZR1 runs 'round the 'Ring - Click above to watch video after the jump

Chevrolet has a few upgrades in store for the mighty 2012 Corvette ZR1. One of which is a set of optional Michelin Pilot Sport Cup Zero Pressure Tires. Coupled with the the Performance Traction Management (PTM) system, the 2012 ZR1 is going to be one fast grippy guppy.

Chevrolet wanted to find out how the new car handles one of the worlds most exciting roads, so a trip to Germany and a ticket to the Nürburgring were in order. In 2008, a Corvette ZR1 ran around the infamous track in 7:26.4. The 2012 car blew that time away with a 7:19.63 blast around the 'Ring - that's a six-second improvement, for those who don't feel like doing the math. Want to ride shotgun on the 12.9-mile journey? Put on your helmet, click past the jump and check out the clip.

Continue reading 2012 Corvette ZR1 shaves six seconds off its 'Ring time

2012 Corvette ZR1 shaves six seconds off its 'Ring time originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 09 Jun 2011 10:57:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2012 chevrolet corvette zr12012 zr1chevroletcorvette zr1gmnurburgringthe ringvideozr1zr1 ring timeThu, 09 Jun 2011 10:57:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19962814/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2011/06/09/2012-corvette-zr1-shaves-six-seconds-off-its-ring-time/19962814/article-detail.xml 19962814 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/06/zr1-ring_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/06/zr1-ring.jpg <![CDATA[Vehicles take flight at the 'Ring's Flugplatz]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/05/25/vehicles-take-flight-at-the-rings-flugplatz/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/05/25/vehicles-take-flight-at-the-rings-flugplatz/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/05/25/vehicles-take-flight-at-the-rings-flugplatz/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

chevrolet corvette zr1 gets air at flugplatz
All four off at Flugplatz - Click above for high-res image gallery

Many areas of Germany's demanding 13-mile Nürburgring race track have became notorious in their own right, and have nicknames that hint at the challenge they present. One such section is called Flugplatz, which means "airport," and the name certainly fits because this crest is enough to send some cars skyward.

Our friendly spy photographers decided to take a break from the cat-mouse-camo-car game, and trained their lenses on Flugplatz. In the gallery below, we have airborne units from Germany, the United States, the United Kingdom and Japan, all attacking the airport. Engineers like to use this lift-off point to check a variety of parameters. They also like to use Flugplatz to force suspension setups to reenact heavyweight prize fights.

We hear that drivers need to exceed 100 miles per hour at Flugplatz in order to play games with gravity. That makes the shots of the Panamera that much scarier, and the shots of the McLaren MP4-12C that much more amazing. Check out all of Flugplatz finest in our high-res image gallery.

Vehicles take flight at the 'Ring's Flugplatz originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 25 May 2011 14:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>a7airbornecayennecorvetteflugplatzjumpnurburgringpanameraporscher-classthe airportzr1Wed, 25 May 2011 14:58:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19949095/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2011/05/25/vehicles-take-flight-at-the-rings-flugplatz/19949095/article-detail.xml 19949095 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/05/corvette-zr1-lead_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/05/corvette-zr1-lead.jpg <![CDATA[Endora SC-1 brings Germany into the coachbuilt Corvette game]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/05/23/endora-sc-1-brings-germany-into-the-coachbuilt-corvette-game/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/05/23/endora-sc-1-brings-germany-into-the-coachbuilt-corvette-game/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/05/23/endora-sc-1-brings-germany-into-the-coachbuilt-corvette-game/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Endora SC-1
Endora SC-1 - Click above for high-res image gallery

We've seen plenty of coachbuilt Chevrolet Corvettes - both old and new - coming out of Italy. Now ze Germans apparently want to get in on the action, and this is the design with which they aim to do it.

Called SC-1, it's the product-in-the-making from Munich-based upstart Endora Cars. The design is decidedly neo-retro, blending styling elements from American and European cars of the '50s, '60s and early '70s with modern touches like LED foglights, taillights and a rear diffuser.

Like the Vette on which it's based, Endora plans on offering the SC-1 in three states of tune: with the base Corvette's 6.3-liter LS3 V8 with 437 horsepower, the Z06's 7.0-liter LS7 V8 with 512 hp and the ZR1's supercharged LS9 V8 with 647 hp. GM's six-speed manual transmission and active suspension are slated to be ported over as well, with a paddle-shift six-speed auto offered only on the base model.

Follow the jump for the full press release and check out the images in our high-res gallery.

Continue reading Endora SC-1 brings Germany into the coachbuilt Corvette game

Endora SC-1 brings Germany into the coachbuilt Corvette game originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 23 May 2011 09:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>chevroletchevrolet corvettecoachbuiltcorvetteendoraendora carsendora sc-1endora sc1sc-1sc1z06zr1Mon, 23 May 2011 09:30:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19947291/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2011/05/23/endora-sc-1-brings-germany-into-the-coachbuilt-corvette-game/19947291/article-detail.xml 19947291 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/05/web1-endora-sc1_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/05/web1-endora-sc1.jpg <![CDATA[Final Best Motoring battle pits LFA against GT-R, ZR1, 911 GT2 RS and F430 GT3]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/05/17/final-best-motoring-battle-pits-lfa-against-gt-r-zr1-911-gt2-r/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/05/17/final-best-motoring-battle-pits-lfa-against-gt-r-zr1-911-gt2-r/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/05/17/final-best-motoring-battle-pits-lfa-against-gt-r-zr1-911-gt2-r/#commentsBest Motoring Fuji supercar battle
Best Motoring Fuji supercar battle - Click above to watch the video after the break

If you were one of the many automotive enthusiasts to shed a tear when it became known that Japan's Best Motoring set off for the giant junkyard in the sky, we have a little piece of good news to cheer you up: there's one final track battle for your viewing pleasure.

Even better news: Best Motoring went out with a bang, pitting the Lexus LFA up against such performance benchmarks as the Nissan GT-R, Chevrolet Corvette ZR1, Porsche 911 GT2 RS and Ferrari F430 GT3.

Yes, there are two almost-race-cars in the mix there along with three machines intended solely for the street, but it doesn't really matter. All such contests should be taken with a grain of salt anyway.

When it's all said and done, what we have here are five mouth-watering supercars on a track together being driven in anger. Want to know how it all shakes out? Check out the video after the break.

Continue reading Final Best Motoring battle pits LFA against GT-R, ZR1, 911 GT2 RS and F430 GT3

Final Best Motoring battle pits LFA against GT-R, ZR1, 911 GT2 RS and F430 GT3 originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 17 May 2011 19:57:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>best motoringchevrolet corvette zr1ferrari f430 gt3gtrlexus lfalfanissan gt-rnissan gtrporsche 911 gt3 rszr1Tue, 17 May 2011 19:57:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19943164/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2011/05/17/final-best-motoring-battle-pits-lfa-against-gt-r-zr1-911-gt2-r/19943164/article-detail.xml 19943164 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/05/best-motoring-final_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/05/best-motoring-final.jpg <![CDATA[Back to School: Learning the ZR1 at the Ron Fellows Performance Driving School]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/05/02/back-to-school-learning-the-zr1-at-the-ron-fellows-performance/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/05/02/back-to-school-learning-the-zr1-at-the-ron-fellows-performance/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/05/02/back-to-school-learning-the-zr1-at-the-ron-fellows-performance/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Corvette ZR1 at the Ron Fellows Driving School
Ron Fellows Performance Driving School - Click above for high-res image gallery

Pahrump, Nevada is a smallish city in the acute, southern tip of Nevada. The population is roughly 70,000 and most of it, when behind the wheel, sticks to the posted speed limits of anywhere between 25 and 45 miles per hour. At any given time, however, a handful of drivers will be doing well beyond those numbers. They are the temporary residents who have shacked up at Spring Mountain Raceway for the Ron Fellows Performance Driving School.

Free tuition is just one of the many perks that comes with purchasing a ZR1.
Set up to teach drivers how to get the best out of their own driving and, if they happen to own one, the best out of America's sports car, it's one of just two official Corvette schools in the country. In fact, free tuition is just one of the many perks (including building your own engine) that comes with purchasing the most almighty of all Corvettes, the ZR1. Within one year of taking delivery of your car, either at the dealership or the Corvette Museum in Bowling Green, Kentucky, you can seek tutelage at no additional cost from Mr. Fellows, or attend Bob Bondurant's school in Phoenix. We sought our training in Nevada.

Being Nevada, it's hot. With Corvettes to train in, it's fast. And having been developed with Ron Fellows, it's thorough. It also happens to be a lot of fun. Continue reading...


Gallery: Ron Fellows Performance Driving School


Photos copyright (C)2011 Jonathon Ramsey / AOL, courtesy of Ron Fellows Performance Driving School

Continue reading Back to School: Learning the ZR1 at the Ron Fellows Performance Driving School

Back to School: Learning the ZR1 at the Ron Fellows Performance Driving School originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 02 May 2011 11:57:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>chevroletchevycorvettedriving schoolfeaturedgrand sportron fellowsron fellows performance driving schoolz06zr1Mon, 02 May 2011 11:57:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19925840/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2011/05/02/back-to-school-learning-the-zr1-at-the-ron-fellows-performance/19925840/article-detail.xml 19925840 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/05/22-ron-fellows-driving-school-opt_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/05/22-ron-fellows-driving-school-opt.jpg <![CDATA[2012 Chevrolet Corvette model year changes leak out?]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/04/21/2012-chevrolet-corvette-model-year-changes-leak-out/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/04/21/2012-chevrolet-corvette-model-year-changes-leak-out/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/04/21/2012-chevrolet-corvette-model-year-changes-leak-out/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

2012 chevrolet corvette

General Motors may have been planned on keeping the changes to its 2012 Chevrolet Corvette close to the vest. In this Internet age, however, things often get out to the masses earlier than intended. There's nothing groundbreaking in store, but a few items are certainly noteworthy.

We've already heard about the upcoming Centennial Edition Corvette, but every bit as significant is word that GM is also going to offer high performance packages for the ZR1 and Z06. According to Corvette Blogger, the ZR1 High Performance Package features 19-inch front and 20-inch rear wheels, Michelin Cup tires and a close-ratio six-speed manual gearbox. The Ultimate High Performance Package for the Z06 goes a bit further with the upgrades. The 505-horsepower coupe gets Brembo carbon ceramic brakes, Michelin Cup rubber, lightweight black wheels and selective magnetic ride control. This group of options was offered on the 2011 Corvette Z06, but for 2012 it's joined by Performance Traction Management, a feature previously available only on the king-of-the-hill ZR1.

Other changes for 2012 include some exterior color swaps, wheel and tire packages and an upgraded Bose audio system. Head over to CorvetteBlogger.com for the full run-down. Thanks for the tip, Keith!

[Source: Corvette Blogger]

2012 Chevrolet Corvette model year changes leak out? originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 21 Apr 2011 12:26:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2012 chevrolet corvettechevrolet corvettecorvettecorvette z06corvette zr1vettez06zr1Thu, 21 Apr 2011 12:26:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19919900/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2011/04/21/2012-chevrolet-corvette-model-year-changes-leak-out/19919900/article-detail.xml 19919900 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/04/2012-chevrolet-corvette_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/04/2012-chevrolet-corvette.jpg <![CDATA[2012 Chevrolet Centennial Edition Corvette is all about racing history [w/video]]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/04/07/2012-chevrolet-centennial-edition-corvette-is-all-about-racing-h/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/04/07/2012-chevrolet-centennial-edition-corvette-is-all-about-racing-h/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/04/07/2012-chevrolet-centennial-edition-corvette-is-all-about-racing-h/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

2012 Chevrolet Centennial Edition Corvette
2012 Chevrolet Centennial Edition Corvette - Click above for high-res image gallery

Chevrolet is celebrating its 100th anniversary with a fitting tribute to racing driver turned entrepreneur, Louis Chevrolet. The brand's founding father raced in four Indianapolis 500s from 1915 to 1919, and though he never managed a victory, his motorsports expertise helped guide his car company from the outset.

In observance, the 2012 Chevrolet Centennial Edition Corvette gets a special coat of "Carbon Flash" black paint and carries logos on the B-pillars with the number 100 and a likeness of Mr. Chevrolet himself. Inside, there's plenty of Alcantara and contrasting red stitching to set off additional black trim, and the headrests are embossed with the same 100th anniversary logo as the B-pillars.

Outside, the Centennial Edition gets special 18 or 19-inch for the Grand Sport and standard Corvette and 19 or 20-inch rollers for the ZR-1 and Z06.

The Centennial Edition package is available on every Corvette model they sell, meaning you can get your Z06, ZR-1 or Grand Sport gussied up just the same as your standard coupe or convertible. All of the cars with the 100th anniversary package receive red painted brake calipers and Corvette's optional (and excellent) magnetically adjustable suspension.

The Centennial Edition Corvettes go on sale this summer, but the first one will be auctioned off by Barrett-Jackson tomorrow in West Palm Beach, Florida. Proceeds of the sale will go to the Austin Hatcher Foundation for Pediatric Cancer. Full press release and video after the jump, gallery below.


Gallery: 2012 Chevrolet Centennial Edition Corvette

2012 Chevrolet Centennial Edition Corvette2012 Chevrolet Centennial Edition Corvette2012 Chevrolet Centennial Edition Corvette2012 Chevrolet Centennial Edition Corvette2012 Chevrolet Centennial Edition Corvette

[Source: Chevrolet]

Continue reading 2012 Chevrolet Centennial Edition Corvette is all about racing history [w/video]

2012 Chevrolet Centennial Edition Corvette is all about racing history [w/video] originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 07 Apr 2011 12:28:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2012 chevrolet centennial edition corvetteaustin hatcher foundationbarrett-jacksoncentennial editionchevroletcorvettecorvette centennialcorvette gsgrand sportlouis chevroletz06zr-1zr1Thu, 07 Apr 2011 12:28:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19905957/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2011/04/07/2012-chevrolet-centennial-edition-corvette-is-all-about-racing-h/19905957/article-detail.xml 19905957 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/04/12corvette-cent-z06-0071-le_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/04/12corvette-cent-z06-0071-le.jpg <![CDATA[Report: Spyker C8 Aileron Spyder trying catch up to 99 units with ZR1 power?]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/01/19/report-spyker-c8-aileron-spyder-trying-catch-up-to-99-units-wit/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/01/19/report-spyker-c8-aileron-spyder-trying-catch-up-to-99-units-wit/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/01/19/report-spyker-c8-aileron-spyder-trying-catch-up-to-99-units-wit/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

2010 Spyker C8 Aileron Spyder - Click above for high-res image gallery

It's been a while since we've heard anything from Spyker that didn't have to do with its acquisition of Saab. The Dutch automaker has apparently had its hands full taking the reins in Trollhattan from General Motors - so busy in fact that it has apparently missed production targets. Like with the new C8 Aileron Spyder.

The convertible version of the stretched and updated C8 debuted about a year and a half ago in Pebble Beach, and was supposed to enter production in the first half of 2010. Well, 2010 has come and gone and apparently production still hasn't started. But we do have some news.

According to reports from the company's native Netherlands, Spyker is planning on keeping the C8 Aileron Spyder very exclusive, with a production run of just 99 units. That's a mighty limited edition, but there's more: according to the same report quoting CEO Victor Muller, Spyker will be ditching the Audi-sourced 4.2-liter V8 for the 6.2-liter supercharged LS9 from the Chevrolet Corvette ZR1.

Considering that, at 638 hp, the LS9 produces over 50% more power than the 400-horse Audi mill, the commensurate drop in the previously estimated 4.5-second sprint to 60 should be well worth the work involved in turning the blown eight around and mounting it in the middle of the Spyker. Either that, or this could all amount to nothing - but the notion that the door between GM and Spyker could be swinging both ways is certainly intriguing.


Gallery: Spyker C8 Aileron Spyder


[Source: GTSpirit.com]

Report: Spyker C8 Aileron Spyder trying catch up to 99 units with ZR1 power? originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 19 Jan 2011 18:28:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>aileronc8chevrolet corvette zr1corvette zr1ls9spyderspykerspyker c8 aileronspyker c8 aileron spyderzr1Wed, 19 Jan 2011 18:28:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19807446/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2011/01/19/report-spyker-c8-aileron-spyder-trying-catch-up-to-99-units-wit/19807446/article-detail.xml 19807446 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/01/spykeraileronspyder_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/01/spykeraileronspyder.jpg <![CDATA[Rumormill: Mooted Cadillac flagship could be mid-engined sports car]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/01/07/rumormill-mooted-cadillac-flagship-could-be-mid-engined-sports/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/01/07/rumormill-mooted-cadillac-flagship-could-be-mid-engined-sports/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/01/07/rumormill-mooted-cadillac-flagship-could-be-mid-engined-sports/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Cadillac XTS Platinum concept revealed
2010 Cadillac XTS Platinum Concept - Click above for high-res image gallery

Car and Driver is reporting that the often-reported Cadillac flagship is at a crossroads. There have been many rumors that the planned range-topper will wind up as a rear-wheel drive, high-end luxury sedan slotting above the production version of the XTS Platinum (the concept version of which is shown above). Now C/D has apparently been hearing whispers that it may in fact show up as a mid-engined sports car.

While the thought of a luxurious, mid-engined ZR1 sounds appealing, we'll file this in the don't-hold-your-breath category. Although, if the company is brassy enough to build the ultra low-volume CTS-V Sport Wagon, then perhaps anything is possible.


Gallery: Detroit 2010: Cadillac XTS Platinum Concept


[Source: Car and Driver]

Rumormill: Mooted Cadillac flagship could be mid-engined sports car originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 07 Jan 2011 11:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>cadillaccadillac flagshipcar and driverxtsxts platinumzr1Fri, 07 Jan 2011 11:01:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19791004/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2011/01/07/rumormill-mooted-cadillac-flagship-could-be-mid-engined-sports/19791004/article-detail.xml 19791004 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/03/01cadillacxtsdetroitliveopt_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/03/01cadillacxtsdetroitliveopt.jpg <![CDATA[Video: Corvette engineers create ZR1 sunscreen?]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2010/10/28/video-corvette-engineers-create-zr1-sunscreen/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/10/28/video-corvette-engineers-create-zr1-sunscreen/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/10/28/video-corvette-engineers-create-zr1-sunscreen/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Corvette ZR1 carbon fiber clearcoat process
Chevrolet Corvette ZR1 carbon fiber 'sunscreen' - click above to watch the video

Corvette engineers working on their own time have come up with a protective coat for the ZR1's carbon fiber weave. The sun's UV rays normally work their destructive magic on carbon weave, so Mark Voss, the ZR1's senior design engineer got together with his after-hours team to come up with a coating that would fulfill Chevrolet customer demands. Check out the process itself in the video and presser after the jump.

[Source: General Motors]

Continue reading Video: Corvette engineers create ZR1 sunscreen?

Video: Corvette engineers create ZR1 sunscreen? originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 28 Oct 2010 15:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>carbon fiberCarbon Fibrechevrolet z06chevrolet zr1clearcoatcorvettez06ZR-1zr1Thu, 28 Oct 2010 15:01:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19692389/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2010/10/28/video-corvette-engineers-create-zr1-sunscreen/19692389/article-detail.xml 19692389 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/10/cabon-fiber-clearcoating_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/10/cabon-fiber-clearcoating.jpg <![CDATA[Video: <i>Motor Trend</i> pits ZR1 against 911 Turbo with surprising results]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2010/09/20/video-motor-trend-pits-zr1-against-911-turbo-with-surprising-re/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/09/20/video-motor-trend-pits-zr1-against-911-turbo-with-surprising-re/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/09/20/video-motor-trend-pits-zr1-against-911-turbo-with-surprising-re/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Motor Trend pits Chevrolet Corvette ZR1 against the Porsche 911 Turbo
Chevrolet Corvette ZR1 versus Porsche 911 Turbo - Click above to watch video after the jump

One is an American-bred land rocket and the other a Teutonic track terror. They are the 2011 Chevrolet Corvette ZR1 and 2010 Porsche 911 Turbo, and Motor Trend has pitted them head-to-head.

Former Autoblog scribe and known flip-flop aficionado Jonny Lieberman provides the voice work and the words for the buff book's latest supercar comparo, with Herr Lieberman calling the 911 Turbo "the fastest manual transmission car we've ever tested." Acceleration is one thing, but what about sex appeal? According to Jonny, "... both cars were alternately parked in front of my house for two weeks, but I discovered pink lipstick marks only on the Corvette's windshield. That's right, someone kissed the ZR1."

We have video of both cars running side-by-side for 1,320 feet and the winner is not much of a surprise. The overall winner of the comparison? Well, that's another story, and the results may surprise you. Hop the jump to see the clip of these two going head-to-head [*Warning: Autoplay].

[Source: Motor Trend]

Continue reading Video: Motor Trend pits ZR1 against 911 Turbo with surprising results

Video: Motor Trend pits ZR1 against 911 Turbo with surprising results originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 20 Sep 2010 19:57:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2010 porsche 9112010 Porsche 911 Turbo2011 chevrolet corvette2011 chevrolet corvette zr1911 turbochevy corvette zr1motor trendporsche 911 turboVettezr1Mon, 20 Sep 2010 19:57:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19640804/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2010/09/20/video-motor-trend-pits-zr1-against-911-turbo-with-surprising-re/19640804/article-detail.xml 19640804 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/09/mt-zr1-911-turbo-screengrab_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/09/mt-zr1-911-turbo-screengrab.jpg <![CDATA[Report: Chevrolet slaps first incentives on ZR1 amidst swelling inventory]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2010/07/19/report-chevrolet-slaps-first-incentives-on-zr1-amidst-swelling/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/07/19/report-chevrolet-slaps-first-incentives-on-zr1-amidst-swelling/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/07/19/report-chevrolet-slaps-first-incentives-on-zr1-amidst-swelling/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

2009 Chevrolet Corvette ZR1 - Click above for high-res image gallery

While overall auto sales have recovered somewhat from the depths of early 2009, things are still pretty slow compared to their peaks. General Motors has done a decent job of avoiding too many customer rebates since it emerged from bankruptcy a year ago by controlling inventories. However, that's a lot harder to do with low volume cars like the Corvette and especially the ZR1. Balancing adequate dealer stock and too many cars is tough when the numbers are so modest to begin with.

With the 2010 model year winding down, GM reportedly still has about 500 ZR1s in stock and is now offering $3,000 cash back or zero percent financing on 2010 models. If you look hard, you may even find one of a dozen or so 2009 models left over which will get you $5,000 off the sticker price. Unfortunately the 2009s aren't equipped the very effective and easy-to-use launch control system that became standard on the '10s, but it's still a deal if you can get one.

Update: General Motors spokesman David Caldwell let us know that the incentives are not just for the ZR1. GM simply removed the previous exclusion of the ZR1 so that existing Corvette rebates now apply to the supercharged model.


Gallery: Review: 2009 Chevy Corvette ZR1 test model


Photos by Sam Abuelsamid and Max Abuelsamid / Copyright (C)2010 Weblogs, Inc.
[Source: CorvetteBlogger]

Report: Chevrolet slaps first incentives on ZR1 amidst swelling inventory originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 19 Jul 2010 10:31:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2009 chevrolet corvette zr1 rebate2009ChevroletCorvetteZr1Rebate20102010 chevrolet corvette zr1 rebate2010ChevroletCorvetteZr1Rebateblue devilblue devil corvetteBlueDevilBlueDevilCorvettechevroletChevycorvettecorvette zr1corvette zr1 rebatesCorvetteZr1CorvetteZr1RebatesZR-1ZR1Mon, 19 Jul 2010 10:31:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19558759/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2010/07/19/report-chevrolet-slaps-first-incentives-on-zr1-amidst-swelling/19558759/article-detail.xml 19558759 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/07/zr1-in-hell_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/07/zr1-in-hell.jpg -1 2