Marking the sixth-generation of its legacy, the 2005 Chevrolet Corvette delivers more power, passion and precision to reach a new standard of performance car excellence.

The sixth-generation Corvette blends technical sophistication with expressive style. Five inches shorter than the current car, the 2005 Corvette cuts a tighter, more taut profile - with virtually no loss of usable space. More than just visual, the new dimensions make the car more agile and "tossable," with upgrades in handling, acceleration and braking.

Beyond the lean new dimensions, the 2005 Corvette features significant upgrades in every area of the car. The new 6.0-liter LS2 V-8 engine takes the standard Corvette Coupe and Convertible across the 400 hp (298 kw) threshold, delivering a dramatic increase in acceleration with excellent efficiency. With base curb weight starting at 3,179 pounds/1,442 kg (Coupe) and 3,199 pounds/1,451 kg (Convertible) the new Corvette is significantly lighter than its predecessor - despite improved structure, larger wheels and tires and greatly increased interior features. The Convertible features an optional power-operated soft top for the first time since 1962. Technologies such as Keyless Access and DVD-navigation make their first appearance on Corvette. At 0.28 coefficient of drag, the sixth-generation is the most aerodynamically efficient Corvette ever and has improved anti-lift characteristics that enable improved high-speed stability and confidence.

The development of the sixth-generation not only replaces the outgoing "C5" Corvette (1997-2004), but also creates a 21st century Corvette that both thrills the legions of traditional loyalists and also captures the imagination of a new generation of performance enthusiasts.

The formula from the C5 era remains: extremely high performance capabilities in a car that offers great style, value and quality, with surprising comfort for daily driving.

The sixth-generation builds on that foundation and reaches beyond with dramatic increases in performance and refinement, wrapped in a passionate new design. With countless enhancements, ranging from major changes to minor adjustments, the sixth-generation aims to perfect the Corvette formula of power, passion and precision delivered with great value.

Power: A new LS2 6.0-liter small-block V-8 is the standard engine in the 2005 Corvette. It is based on GM's new Gen IV small-block family of engines. The LS2 raises the bar for standard performance in the Corvette, delivering estimated peak output levels of 400 horsepower and 400 lb.-ft. of torque (298 kw and 542 DIN n-m). It is the largest, most powerful standard small-block engine ever offered in Corvette.

Performance: The 2005 Corvette is capable of a top speed of 300 km/h (186 mph), faster than any production Corvette in history. The 2005 Corvette reaches zero to 100 km/h (62 mph) in 4.2 seconds. With the optional Z51 Performance Package, 0-100 km/h acceleration time improves to 4.1 seconds. The 2005 Corvette covers the quarter-mile in 12.6 seconds at a speed of 183 km/h (114 mph).

Higher performance from the Z06

The C6 Corvette was given its first significant performance boost with the introduction of the Z06 in 2006. Despite looking similar (ish) to the stock C6 the new Z06 was a radical departure in may ways: aside from the increase in power to 505hp from a displacement of 427 Cubic inches (7 litres), the Z06' engine was located lower and further back in the chassis. The brakes were enlarged and handling benefitted from modifications to the suspension. Carbon fibre was used in some body parts including the muscular front fenders and wider rear fenders to accomodate the wider tyres and wheels. To reduce flex in the body the roof panel was permanently fixed as opposed to removeable on the standard C6. (photo below:)

Performance increased to a remarkable 0-60 time of 3.7 seconds and a top speed of 199 mph!

Just when you thought it couldn't get any faster....

In 2008 the ZR1 was launched, differentiated even from the Z06 with modified body panels and a unique transparent hood section showing off the 638 horsepower engIne topped with an Eaton TVS supercharged V8. The new engine is designated the LS9 and produces an astonishing 638 hp and 604 lb-ft of torque. The Brembo Carbon Ceramic Brakes have to be seen to be believed. (Photo of the new ZR1 is shown at the top of this page).

Advertised top speed is now 205 mph.