Z06 C8: New Performance and Value Standards

GM had already made a significant statement with the introduction of the 2020 mid engine Corvette C8.

It would speak even louder with the 2023 Corvette Z06.

Everybody agrees that the big news came from the engine compartment. But there is still a fair amount on the exterior that makes the C8 Corvette Z06 special.

The most obvious Z06 visual distinction is the trim piece that surrounds the side air intake; it is affectionately known as the wishbone.

The C8 Z06 is 3.6 inches (9.4 cm) wider than the Stingray, which can be thought of as the standard Corvette. The wider body accommodates massive 345-series rear tires - a necessity considering the 670 hp engine output. The wider body also provides more airflow through the side air vents.

Wheels and tires include 20 x 10-inch (50.8 x 25.4 cm) front wheels with 275/30ZR20 tires and 21 x 13-inch (53.3 x 33 cm) rear wheels, used with 345/25ZR21 tires.

Left: There is some serious rear tire width on the C8 Z06. The 13 inch wide wheel is the largest GM has put on a Corvette; previously the largest was found on the 2019 ZR1 which featured a 12 inch wheel.

Michelin® Pilot Sport 4S ZP tires are standard, with Sport Cup 2 R ZP tires included with the available Z07 package.

More Corvette firsts: A carbon fiber wheel measuring 21 inches - both Corvette firsts - is available on the C8 Corvette Z06. They're available with the Z07 Package and are good for a 41-pound (18.6 kg) reduction in unsprung mass.

For Serious Track Days

The available Z07 package includes a carbon fiber aero package with larger front splitter, front-corner dive planes, a rear wing (above) and underbody strakes that enhance downforce. According to GM, the wing provides 734 pounds of downforce at 186 mph, more than any previous Corvette. Additional features include a unique FE7 suspension with specific v4.0 Magnetic Ride Control.

Also included: Larger Brembo® carbon ceramic brake system featuring larger, 15.7-inch-diameter (398 mm) front rotors and 15.4-inch-diameter (391 mm) rear rotors.

According to GM, when equipped with the Z07 performance package in the track prepared configuration on a 300-foot diameter circle, the Z06 is capable of 1.22 g of road-hugging grip.

The C7 Z06 and ZR1 (left) got distinctive smoke tail lights but for whatever reason, the C8 Z06 is not similarly equipped.

To the delight of many Corvette fans, the Z06 exhaust ended up in the center as opposed to the ends as in the Stingray.

The C8 Corvette Z06 interior is essentially the same as the C8 Stingray; Exceptions include Z06 emblems on the speaker housing (below left) and the steering wheel.

The C8 Corvette Z06 is available as an HTC (Hard Top Convertible). Since the introduction of the C7, GM has had a policy of not restricting Corvette to certain options based on a given model. Previously it was common for transmissions, engines and body configurations to be limited in certain areas; for example Z06 Corvettes of C6 and earlier generations were equipped with manual only transmissions.

GM quotes a 0 - 60 MPH time of 2.6 seconds and a 1/4 mile time of 10.6 seconds.

Top speed for the C8 Z06 is 194 mph; Z51 performance package Z06 are rated to 184 mph - the difference found in the smaller front splitter and rear spoiler.

MSRP pricing is $106,695 for the 1LZ coupe; $115,895 for the 2LZ coupe and $120,545 for the 3LZ coupe. The convertible is $114,195 for the 1LZ; $122,895 for the 2LZ and $127,545 for the 3LZ.

Is there a better looking tail light anywhere?

Party Time: 70th Anniversary Corvette

Since 1978 for the 25th celebration, GM has celebrated Corvette anniversaries on a regular basis. So nobody was surprised when a 70th Anniversary was available for the 2023 model year.

The 70th Anniversary Edition Corvettes will be available in two exterior colors: White Pearl Metallic Tri-coat (new) or Carbon Flash Metallic. The option is only available on 3LT Stingray and 3LZ Z06 models; the cost is $5,995.00.

All 2023 Corvettes, including those not equipped with the 70th Anniversary Edition package, will feature a commemorative 70th anniversary interior plaque located on the center speaker grille (right) and (below) a graphic imprinted on the lower rear window.

2023 Chevrolet Corvette Stingray and Z06 70th Anniversary exterior badging and commemorative wheel center caps.

Sill plates and 70th Anniversary Edition logo complete the package.