Corvette Special Editions

The first 15 cars were built, all by hand, in the back of a customer delivery garage in Flint Michigan. The rest came from a new facility devoted to Corvettes in St. Louis which had a capacity to build 10,000 cars a year. The first two were engineering test cars and according to official records, were destroyed. Of the first 300 Corvettes, approximately 225 are known to exist today.

In 1962 Corvette chief engineer Zora Arkus-Duntov initiated a program to produce a lightweight version based on a prototype that mirrored the new 1963 Corvette. Concerned about Ford and what they were doing with the Shelby Cobra, Duntov's program included plans to build 125 Grand Sport Corvettes to make them eligible for international Grand Touring races. After the GM executives learned of the secret project, the program was stopped, and only five cars were built. All five cars have survived and are in private collections. They are among the most coveted and valuable Corvettes ever built, not because of what they accomplished, but because of what might have been.

The cars were driven by famed contemporary race drivers such as Roger Penske, A.J. Foyt, Jim Hall, and Dick Guldstrand among others. Dick Thompson was the first driver to win a race in the Grand Sport. He won a 1963 Sports Car Club of America race at Watkins Glen on August 24, 1963 driving Grand Sport 004.

The second generation Corvette referred to as mid-years was designed by Larry Shinoda with major inspiration from a previous concept design called the "Q Corvette" by Peter Brock and Chuck Pohlmann under the styling direction of Bill Mitchell. The design had several inspirations. The first was the contemporary Jaguar E-Type, one of which Bill Mitchell owned and enjoyed driving frequently. Mitchell also sponsored a car known as the "Mitchell Sting Ray" in 1959 because Chevrolet no longer participated in factory racing. This vehicle had the largest impact on the styling of this generation, although it had no top and did not give away what the coupe would look like. The third inspiration was a Mako Shark Mitchell had caught while deep-sea fishing.

Production started for the 1963 model year and ended in 1967. Introducing a new name, "Sting Ray", the 1963 model was the first year for a Corvette coupe and it featured a distinctive tapering rear deck (a feature that reappeared on the 1971 "Boattail" Buick Riviera) with, for 1963 only, a split rear window. The Sting Ray featured hidden headlamps, non-functional hood vents, and an independent rear suspension. Duntov never liked the split rear window because it blocked rear vision, but Mitchell thought it to be a key part of the entire design.

When the new Corvette Sting Ray was introduced in late 1962, the Corvette was almost a perennial national champion in SCCA racing, but Corvette Chief Engineer Zora Arkus-Duntov took the game to a new level by slipping an obscurely labeled Regular Production Option (RPO) into the Corvette option list—Z06.

Equipment included large heavy-duty drum brakes with cerametallic linings, vented backing plates, finned aluminum drums, and internal cooling fans, along with a dual-circuit master cylinder. The Z06 also featured stiffer front and rear springs, heavy-duty stabilizer bar and shock absorbers, a long-distance 36-gallon fuel tank, and finned aluminum knockoff wheels. Powertrain consisted of the L84 360-hp fuel-injected 327, an M20 4-speed manual transmission, and Positraction. The Z06 option added $2,480.20 to the price of the car, but for those who wanted a track-ready, all-out race Corvette, it was worth every penny.

Chassis number 2227, Gulf One was the first of two Z06s delivered by Yenko Chevrolet to the Gulf Oil racing team led by Gulf Executive Vice President Grady Davis. Davis, a racer in his own right, planned to campaign the cars as part of Gulf's fuels-and-lubricants research and development program. The car was delivered to Gulf personnel at the St. Louis plant in October 1962, driven to corporate headquarters in Pittsburgh, prepared to Davis's specifications, and rushed to Puerto Rico for the first and only Puerto Rico Grand Prix. With Dr. Dick Thompson at the wheel, Gulf One scored the first class win of its career.

After an A-Production victory at the "Refrigerator Bowl" in Marlboro, Maryland, in January 1963, Gulf One was then prepared to FIA rules for Florida's Daytona Continental and Sebring 12 Hours races. In February, Thompson scored a huge 3rd place overall and 1st in GT3 at Daytona behind two Ferrari GTOs, following up in March with a disappointing gearbox failure at Sebring after an impressive qualifying performance.

Thompson barnstormed Gulf One across the country, winning 1st place overall at the SCCA President's Cup at Marlboro and the A/Production class at Danville, Virginia, and Road America in Wisconsin. In all, Gulf One saw more racing combat in more venues than any of the other "Specially Assigned" factory Z06s and was always at the front of the pack.

In 1963, GM sent a very early Corvette C3 chassis to Pininfarina to receive special coachwork. Although many cars were already using monocoque construction, the Corvette was still available as a bare chassis, a blank canvas for Pininfarina on which to work. Beyond that, its classic sports car layout and relatively short wheelbase were an excellent foundation for an exciting, clean-sheet design. The early 1960s at Pininfarina was an era that produced some of the company's finest designs, and after they had worked their magic on so many front-engine Ferraris, the Corvette offered the firm the perfect opportunity to create "an American proposal with European flavor." The chassis that GM shipped over was a top-of-the-line 360 hp "Fuelie" with four-speed, power brakes, AM/FM radio and defroster.

Young Tom Tjaarda, a Dutch designer who had grown up in Detroit, spearheaded the design. After being trained as an architect at the University of Michigan, Tjaarda went to work for Ghia in 1958 at the age of 24. Two years later, his fine eye for design landed him a job at Pininfarina. Throughout the next decade, Tjaarda was at the forefront of automotive design, and his portfolio includes the De Tomaso Pantera, Ferrari's 365 California Spider and Series I 330 GT, Fiat's 124 and an impressive array of one-off show cars and design studies. His designs exhibit the successful integration of various interests of his day - an emphasis on clean planar lines, elegant proportions and effective usage of minimal brightwork - all evidencing a deep understanding of automotive form that anticipated the direction of subsequent automotive design. He was the perfect candidate to produce a European Corvette.

The overall design is described by Pininfarina as: "The body style is based on the idea of maximum simplicity and functionality, and features a remarkable outline owing to the lightness of its sections. The limited use of chrome stresses sober elegance of design and harmony of the whole. The side panel features a sharp angle originating from the radiator grill, running along the fender, the side, and finally dying into the crest of the rear fender, giving the car a peculiar slender appearance."

When you see the Rondine alongside a standard 1963 Corvette, it is hard to believe that the two cars share the same chassis. The Corvette looks like an updated product of the 1950s, whereas the Rondine speaks to an interesting minimalism and restraint - hallmarks of 1960s design. The Rondine is sleek, refined and sophisticated - it lets its clear forms and crisp panels guide your eye around the car and does not overwhelm with detail and trim.

The car's interior, while similar in design to the standard Corvette, is finished in the typical Italian tradition. Every surface is covered in leather, unlike the Corvette, which never utilized the material. The dashboard, door panels, headliner and seats are all covered in smooth, elastic leather that gives the interior a clear, consistent finish and texture.

Once completed, it made its debut at the 1963 Paris Salon. It was dubbed "Rondine", which translates from the Italian as "swallow", a reference to the rear end's celebrated swallow-tail arrangement that minimized the visibility of the car's tail due to projecting rear fenders. This form was so successful that it continued to be implemented on a number of later Pininfarina show cars and was successfully integrated into the design of the Fiat 124.

Once the show was completed, the car was taken back to Pininfarina. At first the car was displayed with a cut off roof line and a backward slanting rear window. The next year the car was given a large wrap-around rear window, making the roof line more fluent. The Rondine remained at Pininfarina's for the next 45 years, rarely being shown and rarely being used. During that time, it covered approximately 3,000 miles and was never painted, never reupholstered and never altered in any way, except for the rear window.

In 2008, for the first time, the car was offered for sale. After 45 years, Michael Schudroff became the very first private owner.

The now-famous L88 made its debut in this red, white and blue Sunray DX Motorsports Corvette. It raced to victory at the 1967 12 Hours of Sebring in the hands of drivers Dave Morgan and Don Yenko to finish 1st in GT class and 10th overall.

This sucess motivated General Motors to later offer the same components for future race cars. The L88 package included many competition components like an M22 'Rock Crusher' transmission, large disc brakes, upgraded suspension and an alumunim head 427. Shortly after the race, the L88 option would be offered on production cars which was a tormedous package for a road-going machine. It still the most powerfull engine that has ever appeared in a production Corvette.

The engine itself had numerious special components: a new forged crank, 12.5:1 pistons, cold air induction and alloy cylinder heads.

Other changes to the car included a complete removal of all luxuries. Chevrolet removed heater, radio, air conditioning and choke. To compensate for these deletions, an F41 suspension, K66 ignition transistor, J56 power discs, G81 positraction differential and a large aluminum radiator were added.

L88 was a race car and Chevrolet wanted to keep it on the track. If the deletion of several creature comforts wasn't enough, the advertising for the car rated the L88 as having less horsepower than the cheaper L71 package. Chevrolet released a figure of 430hp at 4600 rpm. This was well below the actual peak power which was 600 hp at 6500 rpm.

The Sunray DX L88 is an important car because it was one of the first L88s made. It was also one of only 20 L88 corvettes made that year. Don Yenko helped convince Chevrolet to build the L88 package specifically so the DX Sunray team could go racing at Sebring.

This spectacular example was recently offered for public sale by RM Auctions. Having undergone a complete restoration that brought that car back to its 1967 configuration the car was the most impressive Corvette at the sale. The car's oustanding achievement was a first in class at Daytona in 1968. That race, the car even outpaced the 1968 Stingray L88s. The car recieved a high bid of $900 000 USD but did not reach the reserve price.

The 1972 Corvette was the fifth production year of the 1968 - 1982 "C3" generation. The 1972 corvette was the last corvette to feature front and rear chrome bumpers. The 1968-1972 corvettes are called "steel bumper corvettes". The car was very little changed from 1971 to 1972. The 1972 corvette was also the last to have a removable rear window. The ZR1 package and the LT1 engine were offered for the last time until Chevrolet resurrected these designations in the 1990s. To reduce the possibility of shredded fan belts from high rpm runs, the LT1s with air conditioning had the base engine's 5600 rpm redline tach instead of the 6500 rpm tach. In 1972 the measuring of horsepower was changed from gross horsepower to net horsepower, thus the lower horsepower rating. Approximately 27,000 corvettes were produced in 1972. A ZR1 (ZR-1) was available in 1972. The ZR1 had the LT1 motor, the M22 transmission, heavy duty brakes, a transistor ignition, special aluminum radiator, special springs, shocks and sway bars.

1978 was not only Corvette's 25th birthday but also the first time they paced the Indy 500. To celebrate the event, Chevrolet built a series of pace car replicas. Chevrolet was extremely proud of the fact that as a pace car the Corvette was the first car to use a completely stock drive train, the first to be built from a one piece fiberglass body and the only pure two seater since before World War II. These pace car replicas had their own Vehicle Identification Number (VIN), separate from the standard Corvette, another first for the marque. The difference between the VIN number for the standard Corvette and pace car replica is in the eighth digit, the pace car replica has a 9, the Corvette a 4. As well as having their own identification, the pace car replicas had their own paint scheme which consisted of a two tone paint with a red stripe. The first 300 pace car replicas had tires specially made by Goodyear with 'Corvette' imprinted on the side. The extremely high demand for the pace car continually increased the quantity produced and in the end Chevrolet decided to build one for every Corvette dealer, a total of 6,502.

The 1982 Collector Edition was the first Corvette with a hatchback rear window, foreshadowing the C4 Corvette. A special color scheme was used inside and out and Collector Edition badges were featured. The special, exclusive aluminum wheels were designed to look like the optional bolt-on wheels of the 1967 model. The Collector Edition had a "0" in the sixth digit of the VIN rather than the "8" found on standard Corvettes. This was the first Corvette to sell for more than $20,000, with a base price of $22,537.59. The Collector Edition had unlimited availability and 6,759 were produced out of a 1982 total production of 25,407.

By 1981, it was common knowledge that the run of the current, Third Generation Corvette would end with the '82 models, and that the long-awaited and all new Corvette would be out as an '83 model. Or so it appeared.

A handful of '83 Corvettes were built; these were the cars that the media tested-and raved about-in mid and late 1982. Chevrolet actually certified an '83 model Corvette for sale. But, by the time various niggling little problems with quality, reliability, and durability were solved, the initial plan for the new Corvette to be introduced and go on sale in October 1982, proved to be an impossibility.

According to Dave McLellan, a total of 61 serial numbered '83 Corvettes were built. Of these, 18 were "prototypes" and the other 43 were "pilot-line" cars. The prototypes were first simulations of the production design, built on "soft tools." The pilot-line cars were the first cars built with production tooling. Said McLellan, "While you're doing the prototype test program, you are also designing the production car, and then making the tooling for production. These are typically hardened steel tools. Five to six months after the pilot-line cars have been built and thoroughly tested, and the production tools modified to meet whatever may have evolved, then you start to build the production car on the assembly line."

Today, just one of those 1983 models still exists and is on display at the National Corvette Museum.

1986 marked the return of the convertible to the Corvette line-up, and was the second opportunity for Corvette to provide the Official Pace Car for the Indianapolis 500, where the car was driven by famous test pilot Chuck Yeager.

As with the first Corvette pace car in 1978, the 1986 Corvette needed no mechanical modifications to pace the race. In fact it was the first street-legal car to pace Indy since the previous Corvette.

The 1986 Corvette was introduced to the world at the Detroit Auto Show with its ABS braking system which became standard equipment with all 1986 Corvettes. The new brakes worked through a system of sensors at each wheel that transferred data to a computerized electronic control unit. A center line "High Mount" stoplight was added to the 1986 Corvette to comply with federal requirements. On the convertible, the light was inserted into the rear facia.

Test pilot and retired Air Force General Chuck Yeager was selected to drive the Indy pace car.

Chevrolet did not issue a specific pace car replica but instead designated all 7,315 1986 convertibles to be Pace Car Replicas, regardless of color, and included decal packages to be installed by the dealer or customer.

Offered from 1987 to 1991, the RPO-B2K upgrade was available from any Chevrolet dealer and also Callaway's first major Corvette tuning program.

Chevrolet was interested in Reeves Callaway after his successful Alfa V6 tuning and requested a similar program for the fourth generation (C4) Corvette. Together, they made the upgrade package a Regular Production Order (RPO) which was the first time GM had outsourced such an option to a specialist manufacturer. It even had a factory back warranty.

All cars were sent to Callaway's facility in Limerock CT and were outfitted with the Twin Turbo package. The total cost of the upgrade was $19 999 USD which was added to base cost of a coupe ($27 999) or convertible ($33 172).

The B2K option was primarily an engine upgrade, but was comprehensive and used over 2000 new parts. The engine itself got new forged pistons, crankshaft, better lubrication system and four bolt main bearing caps. The induction system required a secondary injection system to retain the original emissions and fuel injection system.

As the C4 updated, so did Callway's program. By 1988, the B2K was pushing 382 bhp and 562 ft. lbs. of torque. This was also met with a price increase which eventually topped out in $33 000 by 1991. Optionally available were 5-Spoke Dymag Wheels.

Later derivatives included the 880 bhp 'Sledgehammer' which went on to reach 254 mph. By the time Callaway stopped the B2K program in 1991, over 500 Corvettes had been converted.

The 1988 35th Anniversary edition, also known as the "Triple White Corvette" is a white coupe with white wheels and white interior (seats & steering wheel). It also features a removable black top and came equipped with everything, including special emblems. The 35th Anniversary car is the 2nd Serialized Corvette in Corvette History, with each car receiving a numbered plaque on the console. There were 2050 of these cars built and a quoted 180 of these were Manual Transmission cars, making this a rare Corvette and collectible Vette. In 2009, the Barrett-Jackson’s Palm Beach auction house offered an original, one owner Z01 optioned 35th Anniversary Corvette with only 682 miles (1,098 km). The 350/245 engine was coupled to a rare 4-speed manual transmission (MMF), an option chosen by only 19%. For 21 years this Corvette was stored in a climate controlled environment. The 35th Anniversary Corvette hammered home for $37,500 and with commission the final sales price was $41,250. This easily beats the high price for a 35th Anniversary edition of $32,100 at an RM Auction held in 1998 in Monterey as listed in the VetteMarket.com database.

During 1986, General Motors acquired Group Lotus, the UK based engineering consulting and performance car manufacturing firm. The Corvette division approached Lotus with the idea of developing the world's fastest production car, to be based on the C4 generation Corvette. With input from GM, Lotus designed a new engine to fit in place of the L98 V8 that was powering the standard C4. The result was what GM dubbed the LT5, an aluminum-block V-8 with the same bore centers as the L98, but with four overhead camshafts, 32 valves. Lotus also designed a unique air management system for the engine to provide a wider power band by shutting off 8 of the 16 intake runners and fuel injectors when the engine was at part-throttle, while still giving the ZR-1 375 hp (280 kW) when at wide open throttle. In addition to the engine, Lotus helped GM design the ZR-1's upgraded braking and steering systems, and helped them pick the settings for the standard "FX3" adjustable active ride control that Chevrolet was fitting to the car, helping to ensure that the vehicle was more than just a modern-day muscle car with a big engine and no real capability on the track.

GM found that the engine required special assembly, and that neither the Corvette plant in Bowling Green, Kentucky nor any of their normal production facilities could handle the workload, so Mercury Marine corporation of Stillwater, Oklahoma was contracted to assemble the engines and ship them to the Corvette factory in Bowling Green where the ZR-1s were being assembled.

The vehicle went on sale in 1990 and was available only as a coupe. It was distinguishable from other Corvette coupes by its wider tail section, 11" wide rear wheels and its new convex rear fascia with four square shaped taillights and a CHMSL (center high mounted stop lamp) attached to the top of the hatch glass instead of between the taillights.

The ZR-1 displayed stunning ability both in terms of acceleration and handling capabilities, but carried with it an astonishingly high price. MSRP for the ZR-1 in 1990 was $58,995, almost twice the cost of a non-ZR-1.

A special 40th anniversary package, consisting mostly of badges and special Ruby Red paint, was offered for 1993 on both LT1 and ZR-1 Corvettes. Otherwise, the most notable change for the year was refinement of the LT5 engine in the ZR-1 that boosted its horsepower from 375 to an epic 405 — in real-world terms (accounting for the difference between the old SAE gross and current SAE net rating methods), the most powerful production Corvette up to that time. Other changes were minimal.

The 1993 40th Anniversary package was available on all models. It included Ruby Red metallic paint and Ruby Red leather sport seats, along with special trim and emblems. 6,749 were sold at an additional cost of $1,455.

The Chevrolet Corvette was selected to pace the Indy 500 for the third time in 1995. Other than mandatory safety features, the Corvette needed no modifications to meet pace car specifications.

The pace car was driven by Chevrolet general manager Jim Perkins. It was his third time driving the pace car at Indy.

527 Indy Pace Car replicas were produced.

One trivia note (that is sometimes a controversy) is that in pre-race publicity photos the Pace Car sported a thin white pinstripe above and below the red nose / front fender stripe. This was eliminated prior to the race, and none of the replicas offered by GM had the white pinstripes.

As a final hurrah for the C4 Corvette (1984-1996), Chevrolet introduced a limited-edition model in 1996 called the Corvette Grand Sport. The 1996 Grand Sport not only signified the end for the C4 'Vette, but it also paid homage to the race-ready 1963 Corvette Grand Sport designed by legendary Corvette engineer, Zora Arkus-Duntov.

The Grand Sport option (RPO Z16) included the LT4 engine, which was only available with the 6-speed manual transmission, special Admiral Blue paint with Arctic White racing stripe down the center of the car and two red hashmarks over the left front fender commemorating the 1963 Grand Sport Corvettes. Unique Grand Sport badging was placed on each side of the hood above the side fender vents as well as a unique chrome plated Corvette emblem on the nose and gas lid.

Grand Sports were available in both Coupe ($3250 option) and Convertible ($2880 option) versions. Only 1,000 were built consisting of 810 coupes and 190 convertibles. Grand Sport Coupes were equipped with P275/40ZR-17 tires on 17x9.5" wheels in front and P315/35ZR-17 tires on 17x11" wheels in the rear. Grand Sport Convertibles were equipped with P255/45ZR-17 tires on 17x8.5" wheels in front and P285/40ZR-17 tires on 17x9.5" wheels in the rear. Coupes came equipped with molded fender flares above the rear wheel arches while the convertibles did not. Grand Sport Wheels were the same as the 1994-1995 ZR-1's 5 spoke wheels except painted with a glossy black finish and a 50mm offset rather than the ZR-1's 36mm. Special gloss black finished front brake calipers with the "Corvette" name in bright aluminum were also part of the Grand Sport option as well.

Interior color choices for the Grand Sport were limited to all black, or a unique Torch Red and Black combination... red seats & trim but with black carpeting. The "Grand Sport" name was embroidered on the seat headrests.

All Grand Sport equipped Corvettes came with their own unique Vehicle Identification Number sequence, distinct from regular production 1996 Corvettes. The only other production Corvette up to this time to have had a unique VIN sequence was the 1990-1995 ZR-1.

The Z16 Grand Sport RPO was a 1-year only option for 1996 Corvettes. The production run for the Grand Sport ran from April 3rd, 1995 for GS VIN #0001 and ended with GS VIN #1000 on June 14th, 1996.

Chevrolet once again produced a Collector Edition, the 1996 Corvette model, celebrating the final year of production for the C-4's (1984-1996), the fourth generation Corvette.

The 1996 model is distinguished by it's exclusive Sebring Silver paint, chromed "Collector Edition" emblems, 17" five-spoke aluminum wheels painted silver, P255/45 ZR-17 (Front) and P185/40 ZR-17 (rear) tires and black brake calipers with raised bright aluminum "Corvette" lettering.

The cockpit style interior featured perforated Sport Seats with "Collector Edition" embroidery available in Torch Red, Black or Light Gray Leather.

In 1996, the "Collector Edition" was treated as an option with no serial number designation. And it was a very popular option selected by 23% of the Coupe buyers at a production number of 4, 031. Even more so was this selection by the convertible buyers; 32% selected this option for 1,281 units.

The list price of the Collector Edition option was $1,250. In today's market it, too, was a good investment. A Collector Edition Coupe at $21,500 in average condition will return more than $3,500 over the standard Coupe. The Collector Convertible at $25,900 shows $2,100 more than the standard Convertible.

The bottom line is that the $1,250 investment in the 1996 Collector Edition has an excellent dollar return in today's resale market.

The Chevrolet Corvette convertible was selected as the Official Pace Car for the fourth time for the 1998 Indianapolis 500. To commemorate the event, Chevy once again produced a limited number of pace car replicas for sale to the public.

Pro golfer Greg Norman was originally selected to drive the pace car in 1998. He participated in testing runs in the early spring. However, Parnelli Jones was named a last-minute substitute after Norman was forced to withdraw because of shoulder surgery.

Chevrolet cars have been selected a total of eleven times for Indy 500 Pace Car duties -- more than any other manufacturer -- and 1998 will mark the seventh time that the company has offered replica cars for sale.

From its Radar Blue exterior color to its in-your-face bright yellow wheels and equally attention-getting yellow & black leather interior, the '98 Corvette Convertible Indy 500 Pace Car turns heads wherever it goes. In addition to the vivid color combination mentioned above, a stunning yellow graphics package, with a checkered flag motif towards the rear, stretches from the Corvette's functional front gill panel all along the sides of the car and up over its tail.

The replica Corvette convertible pace cars were exactly the same as the real thing -- with the exception of the specially-fitted strobe lights on the actual pace car which were mandated by the Speedway for safety reasons. And since the 345-hp Corvette needs no powertrain modifications to handle the pacing chores, the replicas were mechanically identical to the original.

In addition to the special paint and graphics described above, the Indy Pace Car Option Package (Z4Z) on the '98 Corvette convertible contains other highly-desirable options. Heading the list is a Delco electronically-tuned AM/FM radio with seek & scan, automatic tone control, CD player, digital clock, Theft Lock, speed-compensated volume control and a Bose speaker system. Also included is an electronic dual-zone heating & air conditioning system, dual-power leather adjustable sport bucket seats, memory package and floor mats.

Transmission choices were a 4-speed automatic transmission with a performance axle ratio at no extra charge, or the optional 6-speed manual transmission at additional cost.

And that's not all. Beginning with the 1998 pace car production, Chevy introduced an impressive new Active Handling chassis control system (JL4) for the Corvette. The Active Handling system utilizes a yaw sensor, steering angle sensor, lateral accelerometer and other space-age technologies to enhance Corvette's already nimble handling with added accident avoidance capabilities. A "competitive driving" mode, something no other chassis control system has, is available for gymkhana or autocross events.

The Z4Z Pace Car Package (with the automatic) added $5,039 to the Corvette convertible's very competitive base MSRP of $44,990 (which included destination charges).

Chevrolet built only 1,163 of the '98 Corvette Convertible Indy 500 Pace Car replicas, including 5 Pilot C5's for factory use only. The bulk of these were sold by selected Chevy dealers in the United States, and a limited number were exported to Canada, Europe, the Middle East and the Caribbean.

A successor to the ZR-1 made its debut in 2001 as the Z06, giving a nod to the high-performance Z06 version of the C2 Corvette of the 1960s. Instead of a heavy, double-overhead cam engine like in the ZR-1, the Z06 used a high-output, tuned version of the standard LS1 Corvette engine (designated LS6), which initially produced 385 hp (287 kW). Although its total horsepower output was less than that of the last ZR-1, the Z06 was much lighter, and could out-perform the ZR-1 in every category except top speed. It also cost substantially less money than the ZR-1.

Chevrolet engineered several modifications for the Z06 to best use the increased power. Starting with the most structurally rigid body style, the hardtop or FRC, new components included: uprated FE4 suspension, larger wheels and tires, revised gearing ratios, and functional brake cooling ducts. The Z06 is 38 pounds lighter than a standard C5 hardtop thanks to weight-saving measures such as a titanium exhaust, thinner glass, lighter wheel, non-EMT tires, reduced sound proofing, fixed rear radio aerial, and a lighter battery. Starting with the 2002 model year, the LS6 engine output was increased to 405 hp (302 kW) due to a larger CFM air intake, stiffer valve springs, lighter sodium filled valves, more aggressive camshaft lift and timing, lighter pistons, and revised engine block.

The 2004 Z16 Commemorative Edition was equipped with a carbon fiber hood, saving an additional 10 pounds of weight. Other unique characteristics of the Z16 (Commemorative Edition Z06) are the polished aluminum wheels, special paint color and striping, and commemorative-edition badging and wheel center caps. The Z16 also received shock damping tuning for improved handling. The Z16 option accounted for the majority of Z06 Corvettes in 2004, totaling 2025 units, with 325 units shipped overseas.

Factory performance figures for the 405 hp (302 kW) version of the Z06 give an acceleration time from 0-60 mph as 3.9 seconds.

The Corvette served as the Indy 500 pace car for a record-setting fifth time at the 2002 Indianapolis 500. The car was a 2003-model 50th Anniversary Edition Corvette coupe, which kicked off a year-long celebration of the nameplate's 50th birthday. The pace car was driven by actor Jim Caviezel. 2002 marked the 13th time that a Chevrolet served as the Indy 500 pace car, the most appearances by any brand.

Three of the first 2003 Corvette coupes were outfitted for pace car duty at the speedway. The cars were "Anniversary Red" with gold wheels and were essentially stock, with only minor upgrades to the suspension, transmission, and exhaust systems, plus mandatory safety features.

Although official pace car replicas could not be ordered from Chevrolet, decal packages were eventually produced for the 50th Anniversary coupe and convertible.

A 50th Anniversary Edition (RPO Z25) was offered during the 2003 model year to commemorate a half-century of Corvette production. Available in convertible and coupe models, the 50th Anniversary Edition came with a special shade of red paint ("Anniversary Red Metallic") and shale two-tone leather interior; Anniversary Edition convertibles were adorned with a shale-colored soft top as well. A new option for Corvette in 2003, the F55 Magnetic Selective Ride Control Suspension was standard on the 1SC-equipped Anniversary Edition vehicles, but not on the Z06. Special ("Warm Nickel Metallic") painted aluminum wheels, embroidered upholstery trim, and badges completed the Anniversary Edition package. Also included were all of the convenience options offered on the upscale Corvette models.

A slightly modified 50th Anniversary Edition Corvette was chosen to pace the Indianapolis 500 race in May 2002; then the production vehicle became a centerpiece of the subsequent 50th Anniversary Celebration, sponsored by Chevrolet. Festivities included gatherings in Nashville, Bowling Green, and St. Louis. Thousands of Corvettes and their owners arrived from all over the country to participate in the events marking the vehicle's 50th year of production.

The 88th running of the Indianapolis 500 held on May 30, 2004, brought together two powerful symbols that stir the imaginations of enthusiasts around the world...Chevrolet and the Indianapolis Motor Speedway...as a 2004 Corvette Convertible served once again as the Official Pace Car of this year's Indianapolis 500.

Corvette performed Indy 500 pace car duties for a record sixth time, being driven by the actor, Morgan Freeman. This also marked the third consecutive year and 15th time overall that a Chevrolet product has served as the official pace vehicle - the most appearances by any brand.

As the 2004 model year was the last of Corvette's current "C-5" design, pacing the Indy 500 acknowledged the significance the vehicle played in American culture.

The 2004 Corvette that served as the Indy 500 Pace Car was virtually identical to the Convertibles available through local Chevrolet dealerships.

Like race cars, the duties of a pace car can be long and strenuous. During the last two races, for example, the Chevy pace vehicle cars led the field for a combined 84 laps (210 miles) of the total 400 race laps (1,000 miles) run, at an average lap speed of 75 mph. Even during green flag race conditions, the pace cars patiently run at idle, ready for action at a moment's notice.

Very few modifications were made to the Corvette to prepare it for it's duties this year: heavy-duty transmission and power steering coolers, a lower restriction muffler system, four-point racing-type safety belts and a safety strobe light system.

A white and blue two-tone paint treatment incorporates Americana-themed graphics, tying into Chevrolet's new "An American Revolution" marketing theme. The theme captures Chevrolet's pride and passion for innovation, and for success not only in motorsports, but also as it launches 10 new car and truck products in 20 months.

Chevrolet produced no replicas of this year's Pace Car to sell to the public, although some Pace Car diehard enthusuiasts have gone thru the trouble to recreate one of these beauties.

The 2004 Commemorative Edition Z06 featured a new hood using carbon fiber material, and exterior graphics and color designed in concert with the new-look C5-R that will go for a landmark third consecutive Le Mans GTS class championship. The carbon fiber hood represented the first time this advanced material had been used as original equipment for a painted exterior panel on a North American-produced vehicle. The unique Le Mans Blue paint with a silver and red center graphic appeared on the race car only at Le Mans 2003 and only on the road on a limited number of 2004 Commemorative Edition Z06s.

Commemorative Edition Corvette Coupes and Convertibles were also available for 2004. These shared an exclusive package of styling amenities, including Le Mans Blue paint and a Shale-colored interior, with a Commemorative Edition exterior badge noting Corvette's Le Mans titles. Special embroidery on the headrests of each seat is also included.

The carbon fiber hood - only available on the Commemorative Edition version of the 2004 Z06 - weighs 20.5 pounds, 10.6 less than the standard hood, providing another measure of weight savings for a car that already enjoys a very potent power-to-weight ratio. Previously reserved for racing and exotic sports cars, carbon fiber combines extremely high strength and low weight. The inside hood panel is a hybrid of carbon fiber and Sheet Molded Compound (SMC).

Specifically developed for the Corvette, the Commemorative Edition Z06 hood achieves a higher level of exterior finish quality than previous automotive applications of carbon fiber. On most carbon fiber parts, the woven pattern of the material is easily seen beneath the exterior finish. To diminish that effect and preserve the rich LeMans Blue paint finish, on the Commemorative Edition Z06 the carbon fibers are aligned in a single direction. The only visual cue that the hood is made from carbon fiber is in the red border surrounding the silver graphic on the car, which is arranged in a woven pattern signifying the material that lies underneath. The overall result is a finish consistent with the rest of the car that gives just a slight hint at the carbon fiber construction.

All 2004 Z06 Corvettes benefited from the continual pursuit of performance enhancements that characterized the C5 era. The enhancements for 2004 were subtle in terms of physical parts, but significant in terms of the car's performance and feel.

GM engineers refined the Z06's shock damping characteristics to provide improved handling in the most challenging conditions, while maintaining good ride control for the demands of daily driving.

Continual analysis, development and refinement of the shock valves in particular resulted in more damping control and force, delivered more smoothly. This new tuning was aimed at diminishing the impact of yaw and roll on the car, particularly in quick, transient maneuvers such as "S-turns" or a series of tight corners.

General Colin L. Powell, former U.S. Secretary of State, drove a 2005 Chevrolet Corvette convertible pace car to lead the field to the start of the 89th running of the Indianapolis 500 on May 29, 2005.

Neither Powell nor the Indianapolis Motor Speedway is a stranger to Corvette. For a record seventh time, Corvette paced the Indianapolis 500, and at the time of the race, Powell owned a 2005 Corvette coupe. This race was the track debut of the sixth-generation Corvette convertible. It marked the fourth consecutive year and 16th time overall that a Chevrolet has served as the official pace vehicle-the most appearances by any brand.

The 2005 Corvette that served as the Indy 500 Pace Car was virtually identical to the convertible models that were available through local Chevrolet dealerships. Because the 2005 production Corvette was so racing-ready with 400 horsepower capable of 186 mph and a 0-60 mph time of 4.1 seconds, class-leading aerodynamics, a suspension that can handle .98 Gs in cornering situations and large 18-inch front and 19-inch rear wheels, few changes were made to prepare it for this year's role.

Like race cars, the duties of a pace car can be long and strenuous. During the last three Indy 500 races, for example, the Chevy pace vehicles led the field for a combined 140 laps (350 miles) of the total 600 race laps (1,500 miles) and ran an average lap speed of 75 mph. Even during green-flag race conditions, the pace cars patiently run at idle ready for action at a moment's notice.

The 2005 Corvette convertible pace car featured a "Victory Red" paint treatment with a bright "Machine Silver Metallic" primary stripe down the center flanked by titanium and black accent stripes. The 2005 Indy 500 logo is on each door and is embroidered on the headrests while the Chevy red racing Bowtie appears at the top of the hood. The windshield also displayed Chevy's "An American Revolution" slogan, and the overall theme emphasizes Chevrolet's pride and passion for innovation, its success in motorsports and the energy surrounding the launch of 10 new car and truck products in 20 months.

For those enthusiasts hoping to snag a replica, once again, Chevrolet produced no replicas of this year's Pace Car to sell to the public.

The Z06 arrived as a 2006 model in the third quarter of 2005. It had a new 7.0 L (7,008 cc/427.6 cu in) version of the Small-Block engine codenamed LS7, which produced 505 hp (376 kW). In addition to the larger 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 pounds 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. For 2011 the Z06 carbon edition was introduced, which carries over multiple parts from the ZR1 including carbon ceramic brakes, active suspension, and other carbon fiber aerodynamic pieces. Most of these options can be ordered through the Z07 package on the Z06 except for the carbon edition specific hood. Only 500 Z06 Carbon Editions will be made. The Z06 officially weighed 3180 lb (1421 kg), giving it a weight to power ratio of 6.3 lb/hp (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 time of 3.6 seconds and 1/4 mile in 11.8 seconds at 122 mph in a March 2007.

Two racing icons united when Lance Armstrong, seven-time Tour de France winner, drove the 2006 Chevrolet Corvette Z06 Pace Car to lead the field to the start of the 90th running of the Indianapolis 500 on May 28, 2006.

For a record 17th time, a Chevy paced the race, and it's the eighth time for a Corvette to be leading the pack.

Neither Armstrong nor the Corvette is a stranger to elite endurance racing. Armstrong won seven consecutive Tour de France titles, and the Corvette Z06 Pace Car he drove is based on the C6.R Corvette racer that has won the 24 Hours of Le Mans four out of the past five years.

"We're proud that this year's Indianapolis 500 will showcase the new 505-horsepower Corvette Z06 and honored that it will be driven by another racing icon – Lance Armstrong," said Ed Peper, Chevrolet general manager. "The 2006 Corvette Z06 is infused with technology from our own endurance racer – the four-time Le Mans winning C6.R Corvette race car – and having it play such a key role at this important event acknowledges the significance the vehicle has played in American culture for more than 50 years."

As the No. 1-ranked cyclist in the world in 1996, Armstrong competed as a member of the U.S. Cycling Team in the Summer Olympic Games. While seemingly at the top of his game, he was literally forced off his bike because of cancer. He formed the Lance Armstrong Foundation within months of his diagnosis to help others with their cancer struggles.

Armstrong then staged an incredible comeback, winning his first Tour de France title in 1999. After seven consecutive victories, Armstrong retired following the 2005 race and continues to be a leader and activist on behalf of cancer survivors around the world. The Lance Armstrong Foundation has become among the most influential organizations of its kind and provides practical information and tools people need to battle cancer and live strong through education, advocacy, public health programs and research grants.

"The Hulman-George family and the Indianapolis Motor Speedway staff are honored that Lance Armstrong will pace the field for the start of 90th Running of the Indianapolis 500," said Joie Chitwood, Indianapolis Motor Speedway president and chief operating officer. "Lance is a sports icon, and it's only fitting that he'll be driving another American icon on Race Day as he takes the wheel of the Chevrolet Corvette Z06. It's also gratifying to continue the long relationship between the Indianapolis 500 and Chevrolet with such an exciting, performance-bred vehicle as the Corvette Z06."

The Indianapolis Motor Speedway has been the site of many memorable events since the facility opened in 1909. Similarly, Chevrolet has a rich heritage in racing that dates to company co-founder and namesake Louis Chevrolet, a gifted engineer and talented race car driver who competed in the Indianapolis 500 four times.

The 2006 Corvette Z06 that will serve as the Indy 500 Pace Car is virtually identical to the models available today through local Chevrolet dealerships. Because the production Corvette is so racing-ready with 505 horsepower capable of 198 mph and a 0-60 mph time of 3.7 seconds, class-leading aerodynamics, a suspension that can handle 1.01 Gs in cornering situations and large 18-inch front and 19-inch rear wheels that are a foot wide in the rear, the only changes made to prepare it for this year's role were the addition of strobe lights and racing safety gear.

Like race cars, the duties of a Pace Car can be long and strenuous. During the last four Indy 500 races, for example, the Chevy pace vehicles led the field for a combined 186 laps (465 miles) of the total 800 race laps (2,000 miles). Even during green-flag race conditions, the Pace Cars patiently run at idle ready for action at a moment's notice.

With the Indianapolis 500 being such a classic American race during Memorial Day Weekend and with Chevy's "An American Revolution" campaign, the Corvette Z06 Pace Car features an Americana red, white and blue theme. It displays an abstract U.S. flag pattern with "Victory Red" and "Cobalt Blue" ribbons flowing across the car on a base of "Arctic White" with white stars flanking each side. The 2006 Indy 500 logo is on each door, and the Chevy red racing Bowtie appears at the top of the hood.

Marking his championship tenure with Corvette Racing's GT1-class domination in the ALMS, Corvette racing living legend Ron Fellows is celebrated with a specially prepared 2007 Corvette Z06 production model. All are distinguished by Arctic White paint (including the door handles) that is accented with a racing-style fender stripe and Ron Fellows' autograph.

The front fender graphics are reminiscent of the identifying graphics of the Corvette GT1 race car. They feature double Monterey Red Metallic stripes with Machine Silver borders and Fellows' autograph in a contrasting Victory Red shade, along with the callouts of the championship years when he was at the wheel. There is also a maple leaf logo motif incorporated with the graphics, a nod to Fellows' Canadian heritage. Indeed, the red-over-white color scheme of the car's paint and graphics represents Canada's colors.

This special Corvette Z06 is the first signed special edition in Corvette's 54-year history, and is the first Arctic White Z06 ever offered. Only 399 are planned for production: approximately 300 for the United States, 33 for Canada and 66 for other export markets.

Exterior cues include a full-width racing spoiler and a unique windshield banner. Additional standard equipment includes the well-equipped 2LZ package and chrome wheels. Special interior appointments include:

-Red seats, center console, door panels and instrument panel
-Red, leather-covered armrest with a Corvette-signature 'cross flags' logo that is hand-signed and numbered by Ron Fellows
-Tech pattern interior trim

An accomplished road racer, Ron Fellows is inextricably woven into the Corvette Racing team's success. He helped test and develop the first Corvette C5.R race car and recorded the team's first win in 2000. Fellows also grabbed the ALMS GTS class championship in 2002 and shared that position in 2003 and'04. Fellows has been a part of all six consecutive ALMS GT1 manufacturers championships for Chevrolet, and was voted the most popular ALMS driver in 2004 and'05. Additionally, he has slipped behind the wheel of NASCAR Nextel Cup Chevy Monte Carlo SS race cars when the series hits road courses. He�s also scored a pair of NASCAR Craftsman Truck series wins, three NASCAR Busch Series wins, 19 SCCA Trans Am wins and was the GM Player's Challenge champion in 1989.

A 2007 Chevrolet Corvette convertible paced the 91st running of the Indianapolis 500 on May 27, 2007. As it was selected as the Official Pace Car, Chevrolet supplied several identically prepared and uniquely trimmed Corvette convertibles – in new Atomic Orange paint with distinctive gold ribbon graphics – that served in the official pace duties of the race, as well as supporting activities. This year, the driver of this Pace Car was Patrick Dempsey, co-owner of IndyCar team Vision Racing, and star of Grey's Anatomy" TV series !

Five hundred production replicas of those official cars were offered to the public – all of them convertibles.

The distinguishing features of the Pace Car replica convertibles include:

• Atomic Orange exterior color, including door handles
• Indianapolis 500 exterior graphics – including gold ribbon graphics that flow outward from the front fender vents and " Indianapolis 500" door logos
• Special Indianapolis 500 fender badges
• Color-keyed Z06 rear spoiler
• New aluminum "split-spoke" wheels in Sterling Silver
• Ebony seats with embroidered Indianapolis 500 logos
• Interior trim plate and pods painted Atomic Orange
• Atomic Orange engine covers

All of the Pace Car replicas are equipped with the Corvette's standard LS2 small-block V-8 and Z51 performance package. A six-speed manual transmission is standard, with the six-speed paddle-shift automatic optional. The navigation system with Bose audio, as well as OnStar, is standard.

The performance-bred Corvette handled its official pace duties in nearly factory-stock trim, with little more than race track-required safety equipment and strobe lights added – as well as, of course, the eye-catching graphics. In years past, many Indy Pace Cars required extensive modification to perform their on-track tasks. The 2007 Corvette's powertrain and suspension, including the 400-horsepower (298 kW) LS2 small-block V-8 engine, are more than adequate to maintain the speed, acceleration and handling required to lead the pack around the famed "Brickyard" race track.

This year marked the ninth time Corvette had served as the Official Pace Car of the Indianapolis 500. The previous years were 1978, 1986, 1995, 1998, 2002, 2004, 2005 and 2006. It also is a record fourth consecutive turn for the Corvette, as well as a record 18 th time for a Chevrolet, to be selected as the Pace Car.

Production replicas were not offered every time the Corvette was selected as the Pace Car. In fact, 2007 marks the first time Chevrolet has offered a regular-production replica since 1998. But along with the regular-production models, several dozen copies of all the pace cars have been used for official activities in support of their respective Indianapolis 500 races, such as parades. These cars – known as "festival" or "track" cars – have become prized collectibles, along with the limited-edition regular-production replicas.

The 2008 Corvette 427 Limited Edition Z06 pays homage to the big-block Stingray models of the mid-1960s. The 427 designation refers to the cubic-inch displacement for the highest-performance engines offered between 1966 and '69 – and is also the cubic-inch equivalent of the Z06's 7.0L LS7 small-block V-8.

The 427 Limited Edition Z06 features a Crystal Red Tintcoat exterior, the first Z06 ever offered with a red metallic tintcoat paint. It also features graphics on the hood and fascia that evoke the style of the famed "stinger" hood design and graphics that were offered with 1967 models equipped with the 427 engine. Also unique to this model are "427" hood badges. Each example is numbered and signed by Wil Cooksey, the Corvette assembly plant manager who is retiring after 15 years on the job, and comes with a certificate of authenticity.

A breakdown of the 427 Limited Edition Z06's unique content includes:

• Crystal Red Tintcoat exterior paint with stinger-style graphics and 427 hood badges
• Exclusive, new chrome wheels
• Body-color rear spoiler and door handles
• Exclusive dark titanium custom leather-wrapped interior
• Special Crystal Red interior trim plate graphic pattern
• Console armrest signed and numbered by Wil Cooksey
• "427"-embroidered seats and floor mats
• "Z06" sill plates

Known for their charismatic designs and superior performance, the pack-leading Pace Cars share a special place in Indianapolis 500 lore. History was made at the 2008 Indianapolis 500 when a pair of distinctive yet highly differentiated Corvette models served as the Official Pace Cars – one highlighting Chevrolet's commitment to fuel solutions and the other marking 30 years of Corvette's Pace Car heritage.

Chevrolet and Indianapolis Motor Speedway officials gathered at the Indianapolis Auto Show to make the historic announcement Dec. 27.

One of the Pace Cars was a customized Corvette Z06 E85 concept that runs on E85 ethanol fuel, a domestically produced alternative fuel similar to the 100 percent fuel-grade ethanol that powers all of the race cars in the IndyCar Series. It was driven during the race's pace lap by two-time Indianapolis 500 champion Emerson Fittipaldi.

The other Official Pace Car (or rather two) were a black-and-silver commemorative edition Convertible and Coupe that marks the 30th anniversary of the celebrated 1978 Pace Car – the first Corvette to pace the field at the Indianapolis 500. Chevrolet produced a total of 500 Pace Car replicas in both coupe and convertible form, each signed personally by Fittipaldi at the Corvette's Bowling Green, Ky., assembly plant.

"Although not a production FlexFuel vehicle, the Corvette Z06 E85 concept Pace Car is a high-performance example of Chevrolet's gas-friendly to gas-free initiative, demonstrating viable fuel solutions," said Ed Peper, Chevrolet general manager. "As an ethanol refiner in his native Brazil, Emerson Fittipaldi is the fitting Chevrolet champion to help support GM's efforts with E85 and celebrate 30 years of the Corvette pacing the Indianapolis 500."

The 92nd Indianapolis 500 was held on Sunday, May 25, 2008. It was the Corvette's 10th appearance as the Official Pace Car – a record unmatched by any other vehicle.

"It's only fitting that Corvette will be the first car to earn the distinction of having two models pace the Indianapolis 500 in the same year," said Joie Chitwood, Indianapolis Motor Speedway president and chief operating officer. "Chevrolet and Corvette are a vital part of the rich history of 'The Greatest Spectacle in Racing,' and we're honored to have a great champion of the race and of alternative fuels, Emerson Fittipaldi, as this year's Pace Car driver."

The Corvette Z06 E85 concept Pace Car is based on the production Z06 – already one of the fastest and most powerful cars on the market – and blends its performance with the high-octane, renewable alternative fuel that is derived from a variety of crops grown across the United States.

E85 is blend of 85 percent ethanol and 15 percent gasoline. Its benefits include reduced emissions of greenhouse gases and a reduced dependence on petroleum. GM is the leader in E85 production models, with more than 2.5 million E85-capable cars, trucks and SUVs on the road – with more on the way. Chevrolet offers seven E85-capable models in 2008.

Apart from the fuel system and powertrain controller revisions required to run E85, the Z06 concept Pace Car is mechanically stock. It is distinguished by a unique Gold Rush Green color-shifting paint scheme that changes between hues of green and gold when viewed from different angles and in different light. A subtle checkered flag pattern also is part of the paint scheme. Safety equipment and strobe lights are the only other equipment added to the car.

The GT1 Championship Edition (Regular Production Option GT1) commemorates the success of Corvette Racing and the Corvette C6.R. Essentially there were six versions of the GT1 Championship Corvettes built. The GT1 Championship Edition was available in Coupe, Convertible or Z06 models with your choice of Velocity Yellow or Black. And because it was a commemorative model, the GT1′s race inspired graphics feature Corvette Racing’s Jake mascot ghost-painted on the hood bulge as well asyears of the championships and driver’s National flags.

Included in the GT1 Championship Edition package:

• Graphics inspired by C6.R livery feature Corvette Racing "Jake" mascot, ALMS championships, and driver flags
• ZR1-style body color full-width spoiler and chrome wheels
• Custom leather-wrapped ebony interior with exclusive yellow accent stitching
• GT1 embroidery on leather seats, instrument panel, and center console armrest
• Special engine cover with carbon pattern and yellow Corvette lettering
• Windshield banner (owner installed)

GT1 Championship Edition GT1 Championship Edition to be produced in Corvette coupe, convertible and Z06 models in spring 2009:

• Available in 45U Velocity Yellow (with black headlamps) or 41U Black
• Specific VIN sequence 300001 series for 45U Velocity Yellow representing the No. 3 Corvette C6.R
• Specific VIN sequence 400001 series for 41U Black representing the No. 4 Corvette C6.R
• Production limited to 100 per each color and body style combination (600 total)
• Coupe and convertible versions also include Z51 Performance Package and NPP Performance Exhaust
• Optional MX0 6-speed paddle shift automatic on coupe and convertible
• Optional C2L dual roof package on coupe
• Optional U3U Navigation System on all models

The Competition Sport Package adds just the right amount of flash to finish off the Corvette's track-ready looks. Included are a set of racing stripes in Competition Gray, unique wheel and headlamp treatments and a collection of Corvette Racing "Jake" and CSR decals for the interior and exterior. Racing numbers that correspond to the individual owner's build number are also available. Inside, the Competition Sport Package adds an ebony interior with titanium embroidery and Corvette Racing pedals. A new engine cover is also a part of the package.

When combined with the Z51 Performance Package that adds a horsepower-boosting exhaust and differential cooler, the result is a seriously track-ready Corvette, especially in Z06 form.

The Competition Sport package was built for the owner who attends driving schools and track events. The edition was available in both Z06 and Z51 coupe configurations and featured performance options like the differential cooler, NPP exhaust and heads-up display.

Only 72 CSC Corvettes were built.

The 2009 Corvette ZR1 is an American supercar that brings the technology and engineering refinement of carbon-fiber, ceramics and electronics together in a distinctive design. The Chevrolet Corvette C6 ZR1 is a high performance version of the Chevrolet Corvette C6. Both the C3 from 1969–1971 and C4 Corvettes from 1990-1995 had ZR-1 models. However, the C6 variant is officially labeled as the "ZR1" while previous variants had a hyphen between the ZR and 1, as in "ZR-1".

Here are the basic stats of the ZR1:

• All-new LS9 supercharged 6.2L V-8 targeted at producing at least 100 horsepower per liter, or 620 horsepower (462 kW), and approximately 595 lb.-ft. of torque (823 Nm)
• The supercharged 6.2-liter V8 in the forthcoming Chevy Corvette ZR1 cranks out 638 horsepower, 604 ft-lb torque. Top speed 205 mph.
• Six-speed, close-ratio, race-hardened manual transmission
• New, high-capacity dual-disc clutch
• Higher-capacity and specific-diameter axle half-shafts; enhanced torque tube
• Specific suspension tuning provides more than 1g cornering grip
• Twenty-spoke 19-inch front and 20-inch rear wheels
• Michelin Pilot Sport 2 tires – P285/30ZR19 in front and P335/25ZR20 in the rear – developed specifically for the ZR1
• Standard carbon-ceramic, drilled disc brake rotors – 15.5-inch-diameter (394-mm) in the front and 15-inch-diameter (380-mm) in the rear
• Larger brake calipers with substantially increased pad area
• Standard Magnetic Selective Ride Control with track-level suspension
• Wider, carbon-fiber front fenders with ZR1-specific dual vents
• Carbon-fiber hood with a raised, polycarbonate window – offering a view of the intercooler below it
• Carbon-fiber roof panel, roof bow, front fascia splitter and rocker moldings with clear-coated, exposed carbon-fiber weave
• ZR1-specific full-width rear spoiler with raised outboard sections Specific gauge cluster with boost gauge (also displayed on the head-up display) and 220-mph (370 km/h) speedometer readout
• Only two options: chrome wheels and a "luxury" package
• Curb weight of approximately 3,350 pounds (1,519 kg)

Designed to further incorporate technology developed through racing, the Corvette Z06 Carbon Limited Edition is a tribute to the 50th anniversary of Corvette's first race in the 24 Hours of LeMans. It features Brembo carbon ceramic brakes (from the Corvette ZR1), black 20-spoke wheels (which measure 19-inches in front and 20-inches in the rear), Magnetic Selective Ride Control, an improved cooling system, and a faux carbon fiber engine cover.

In terms of styling, the Carbon edition comes with an Inferno Orange or Supersonic Blue exterior, black headlamps and mirrors, a ZR1-style spoiler, and several carbon fiber body parts (hood, side sills, and front splitter). Inside, Chevrolet installed ebony leather and suede upholstery (with blue or orange seat stitching), a unique steering wheel emblem, special sill plates, and embroidered headrests.

According to Tadge Juechter, Corvette Chief Engineer, "For track use, the Z06 Carbon is the best balanced Corvette yet. It combines the lightweight and naturally-aspirated Z06 engine with the road-holding and braking of the ZR1. For technical tracks like Laguna Seca, the Z06 Carbon could shave up to three seconds off the Z06 lap time."

Only 500 Carbon editions were produced.

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 2013 model year marks the 60th Anniversary of Corvette. Chevrolet is celebrating this milestone by offering a 60th Anniversary Package on all 2013 model year Corvette models in 4LT, 3LZ and 3ZR trim levels:

Chevrolet is also bringing back the most coveted combination in Corvette history — the 2013 Corvette 427 Convertible Collector Edition. It's the highest performing Corvette Convertible yet and combines historic 427 V8 engine heritage with innovative technologies derived from the Corvette Le Mans racing program. Included is a hand-built 7.0-liter LS7 V8 (co-developed with the winning GT1 race engine) with 505 horsepower and 470 lb.-ft. of torque and a number of performance-supporting features:

• carbon fiber hood, fenders, floor panels
• available carbon fiber splitter and rockers
• six-speed manual transmission
• magnetic selective ride control
• 19-inch front/20-inch rear machined- face cup wheels (black cup or chrome Zr1 wheels available)
• michelin ps2 performance tires

427 Convertible delivers a 0-60 performance of 3.8 seconds, quarter-mile performance of 11.8 seconds, lateral acceleration of 1.04 g, a power-to-weight ratio of 6.64, EPA-estimated 24 MPG highway with no gas guzzler tax and a top speed of more than 190 mph. Available as a separate model in 2LT, 3LT and 4LT trim levels, it will offer a unique VIN sequence coveted by all collectors.