Description
The Z06 arrived for the 2006 model year as a homologation vehicle in the third quarter of 2005 and is the lightest of all Corvette models. The Z06 was equipped with the largest-displacement small-block engine ever produced, a new 7,011 cc (7.0 L; 427.8 cu in) V8 engine codenamed the LS7. The engine has a power output of 505 hp (512 PS; 377 kW) at 6,300 rpm and 470 lb⋅ft (637 N⋅m) at 4,800 rpm of torque. Until the introduction of LT6 engine in October 2021, LS7 was the most powerful production naturally aspirated engine made by General Motors.

In addition to the larger displacement engine, the Corvette Z06 has a dry sump oiling system, and connecting rods made out of titanium alloy. The frame of the Z06 is constructed from aluminum, saving 136 lb (62 kg) over the standard steel frame. Other weight saving measures such as balsa wood/carbon fiber composite floors and a magnesium alloy engine cradle were used. The Z06's body differentiates itself from the standard Corvette with its larger front and rear fenders and an intake inlet scoop on the front bumper. The front fenders are constructed with carbon fiber and the rear fenders contain ducts to aid in cooling the rear brakes.

The Z06 weighed 3,130 lb (1,420 kg), giving it a weight to power ratio of 6.2 pounds per horsepower (3.8 kg/kW), allowing it to achieve a fuel economy of 15 mpg‑US (16 L/100 km; 18 mpg‑imp) in the city and 24 mpg‑US (9.8 L/100 km; 29 mpg‑imp) on the highway. The Z06 was the official pace car for both the 2006 Daytona 500 and the Indianapolis 500 race. Car and Driver recorded a 0-60 mph (97 km/h) acceleration time of 3.6 seconds and 1/4 mile in 11.7 seconds at 125 mph (201 km/h) in October 2005.

Features
- Hand-built LS7 V8 with dry sump oiling system
- Aluminum chassis with fixed roof
- Larger/stiffer anti-sway bars
- Stiffer springs and shocks
- Larger rear spoiler and front splitter
- Transmission cooler
- Unique front fascia with intake inlet
- Wider carbon fiber front and fiberglass rear fenders
- Functional front and rear brake ducts for added brake system cooling
- Unique light weight forged aluminum 18-inch front and 19-inch rear wheels
- Wider 275/35ZR18 tires in the front and wider 325/30ZR19 tires in the rear
- Larger 6-piston front and 4-piston rear calipers, including cross-drilled 355 mm front rotors and 340 mm rear rotors
- Optional 1LZ, 2LZ, and 3LZ trim packages

For the 2011 model year, the Z06 carbon edition was introduced, which carries over multiple parts from the high performance ZR1 including carbon ceramic brakes, active suspension, and other carbon fiber aerodynamic pieces. In 2012 and 2013, these options could be ordered through the Z07 package on the Z06. Additionally, it was only available in exterior colors Inferno Orange and Supersonic Blue, and the interior was decked out unique Z06 Carbon emblem accents.

Credits
101 Creative