The Year of the Z06 Part Two
Distinguishing the Z06 rear view is smoked taillights; standard 2015 Corvette taillights are red. The LEDs illuminate red so the appearance is the same when they are on.
The Michelin Pilot Sport Cup 2 tires on the 2015 Corvette Z06 with the Z07 performance package are P285/30ZR19 front (compared to P245/35R19 for the standard issue Z51), and P335/25ZR20 rear (compared to P285/30R20 for the standard issue Z51). Right: Z06 wheels are 19 inches x 10 inches in the front (the Stingray Z51 comes with 19 inches x 8.5 inches) with the rears measuring 20 inches x 12 inches (compared to 20 inches x 10 inches on the Z51).
Performance Aerodynamics Takes a Giant Step
The Z06 will offer three increasing levels of aerodynamic downforce:
- The standard Z06 features a front splitter, spats around the front wheel openings, a unique carbon-fiber hood with a larger vent, and a rear spoiler that is exclusive to the Z06. An early GM press release indicated the Z06 would use the rear spoiler from the Corvette Stingray’s Z51 Performance Package.
- An available Carbon Fiber Ground Effects Package ($2,995) - in either black or a visible carbon-fiber finish ($2,995) - adds a carbon fiber front splitter with aviation-style winglets, carbon fiber rocker panels, and a larger rear spoiler with a fixed wickerbill – a small, vertical tab at the edge of the spoiler that significantly increases downforce.
- Below: The available Z07 package ($7,995) adds larger winglets to the front splitter. Brembo carbon ceramic-matrix brake rotors that improve braking performance and contribute to better handling through reduced unsprung weight are included with the Z07.
Right: The Z07 Performance Package includes a significant spoiler upgrade which features wickerbills (vertical plates) at each end that adds significant downforce.
The see-through center section is adjustable to allow at least the promise of better lap times.
Above: The C7 Z06 is equipped with enhanced rear brake cooling in the form of a lower air intake. Fully functional, they are also reminiscent of the 2001 Corvette Z06 rear brake intake (below).
Above: An engine statistics emblem was mounted on the console of the Z06, sort of a nod to the emblem found on early C3 Corvettes (below).
