2006 CHEVROLET CORVETTE NEW CAR BUYER'S GUIDE

What's New for the 2006 Chevrolet Corvette Z06?
After a year hiatus, the Z06 nameplate returns to the Corvette lineup. Now based on the all-new-for-'05 Corvette, the Z06 model features a number of mechanical upgrades that drastically improve the Corvette's already impressive performance capabilities. At the heart of the beast is a heavily modified version of the Vette's V8. Now displacing 7.0 liters (427 cubic inches), the "LS7" engine is rated at 505 horsepower and 470 lb.-ft. of torque. Power is routed to the rear wheels through a stouter six-speed manual transmission. Stronger brakes and a stiffer suspension tune are part of the package, as are wider wheels and special Goodyear performance tires. The Z06 also features flared fenders, additional cooling vents and modifications, a fixed roof, and lightweight aluminum and carbon fiber components. The final result is the fastest production Corvette ever. Zero-to-60 mph acceleration takes fewer than four seconds, and its top speed is above 190 mph. At the same time, the Z06 retains much of the Corvette's above-average usability and it can be had with most of the same optional features. Expect to see the 2006 Corvette Z06 at Chevrolet dealers by late summer '05.

Advantages of the 2006 Chevrolet Corvette Z06:

• Weapons-grade 7.0-liter V8 engine
• Otherworldly performance envelope
• A true performance bargain

Objections to the 2006 Chevrolet Corvette Z06:

• Hmmmm…huh…bad gas mileage?

Editor's Advice:
If driving a base Honda Civic could be equated to listening to Enya on a tinny set of earbud headphones, then driving the new Corvette Z06 will probably seem like experiencing Metallica front-row live while smoking five cigarettes at once. Here, folks, is a 505-hp rock-and-roll machine that's as fast as the world's top exotics, functional enough as a daily driver and fully covered by a factory warranty. All for an MSRP of $65,000. Some will argue, correctly, that the Z06 lacks the prestige and refinement of similarly performing cars like the BMW M6, Ford GT, Ferrari F430 and Porsche 911 Turbo. But measured with the popular yardstick of bang for the buck, the Corvette Z06 has no equal.