2010 Corvette Z06 specs and price details

The 2010 Chevrolet Corvette Z06 is the range-topping performance model in the Corvette lineup and is widely regarded as one of the best performance bargains on the market. Pricing for the 2010 Corvette Z06 starts at $75,235 which is an increase of $360 over 2009's MSRP of $74,875, but it remains incredible value and offers the kind of performance normally reserved for cars costing twice as much.

Power comes from the now familiar LS7 7.0L V8. Born out of Chevrolet's racing program, each V8 engine is hand-built at the GM Performance Build Center in Wixom, Michigan and features a dry-sump lubrication system, titanium valves and connecting rods, forged-steel crankshaft with six-bolt main bearings and a high-profile cam.

The result is a peak output of 505hp (377kW) at 6,300rpm and 470lb-ft (640Nm) at 4,800rpm, the potent engine in the Z06’s 1,440kg body sees the car sprint from 0-60mph in just 3.7 seconds, pass the quarter mile in 11.7 seconds at 125mph and reach a top speed of 198mph. Drive is sent to the rear wheels via six-speed manual. Massive six-piston front and four-piston rear disc brakes provide more than enough stopping power to haul the Corvette Z06 down from speed. Despite its massive amount of power, the Corvette Z06 does not incur a federal government gas-guzzler penalty.

The Z06 package also includes several other performance features. To keep weight down, the Z06's front fenders, wheelhousings and floorboards are made of carbon fiber. To further cut weight, Chevrolet gave the Z06 an aluminum body structure -- shaving off 136 pounds from a Corvette Coupe -- and a magnesium roof structure and engine cradle. The weight-savings measures give the Corvette Z06 a power-to-weight ratio of, besting the Ferrari F430 and Porsche GT3 RS.

Like the rest of the 2010 Corvette range, the latest Z06 comes with a new launch control system and side airbags as standard. Buyers opting for the top-end 3LZ package now get powered sports seats for both driver and passenger, while a new Cashmere interior with Corvette logo embroidery is also available.

The 2010 Z06 retains the 2,686mm wheelbase of other Corvette models, as well as the short-long arm suspension and transverse spring design, but it rides on all-new wheels, tires and brakes, as well as its own rear spring and roll stabilizer.

The cast-spun aluminum wheels measure 18in up front and house 14in disc brakes and red six-piston calipers, while in the rear the wheels are 19in in diameter and house 13.4in discs with four-piston calipers. A four-channel ABS system is standard, as is an active handling system complete with a ‘Competitive Driving’ mode.

The 2010 Z06 is the availability of the full Corvette color palette, with eight colors including Arctic White, Crystal Red Metallic and the new Torch Red now offered.