I have always had a soft spot for paper car magazines. The thrill of receiving a bundle of automotive stories and feasting my eyes upon the delightful pages is simply unmatched. And for all the Corvette enthusiasts out there, the April 2017 issue of Car and Driver has something truly special in store.
Titled “25 Cars Worth Waiting For,” the cover story showcases the highly awaited 2018 ZR1 Corvette, stealing the spotlight from the Kia Stinger and Alfa Romeo Stelvio. Occasionally, magazines like to tease with images that are nearly spot-on before the official debut, and this issue does not disappoint. The cover image and feature story provide a glimpse of the ZR1 that is sure to leave you in awe.
The article, written by veteran auto journalist and author Don Sherman, offers a brief teaser, leaving us hungry for more. The image presented is a rear ¾ view, meticulously crafted to give us a taste of what is to come. While specific details about the ZR1’s specifications are scarce, Sherman speculates that it will pack a mighty 750-horsepower, derived from a more robust Eaton supercharger.
As for the ZR1’s available configurations, it will mirror that of the C7 Z06, providing the option of a coupe or convertible, with either a 7-speed manual or 8-speed automatic transmission. While the article doesn’t delve into specifics about the suspension, brakes, wheels, or tires, Sherman’s comparative “formula” estimates the ZR1’s base price to be around $135,624, aligning with the previous C6 ZR1’s starting price of $112,500.
Now, let’s discuss what caught my eye about the ZR1’s design. Firstly, the integration of the front end is simply remarkable. Unlike other performance cars with somewhat “tacked on” flaring side nostrils, the ZR1’s front/side openings flow seamlessly with the inside edge of the headlights, creating a harmonious and captivating look.
Next, the front splitter steals the spotlight. Its shape mimics the forward edge of the lower valance but protrudes more aggressively compared to the Z06. This design choice exudes a fierce and race car-inspired aesthetic.
Moving on to the hood, it boasts a unique treatment that is undeniably striking. The presence of flat ridges on both sides of the hood dome mirrors the lines found on the fenders. The gill-like air extractor adds a touch of subtlety, while the break-line behind the “ZR1” badge leaves me curious. If the rendering is accurate, it seems that Corvette stylists decided against continuing the peek-a-boo clear plexi supercharger cover from the C6 ZR1. Personally, I wouldn’t have minded seeing it make a comeback.
And let’s not forget about the rear wing. Drawing inspiration from the 2010 Z06X Concept Corvette, the ZR1’s rear wing is manually adjustable and oozes style. It’s not just a utilitarian wing; it features angled vertical supports and winglettes at the ends, giving it a unique and captivating look.
Now, onto what I don’t like, which isn’t much, to be honest. While the Z06 vents with a “ZR1” badge work well, I would have loved to see dedicated front fender vents. Additionally, the wheels, although beautiful, are standard option C7 Z06-style and size wheels. For the flagship Corvette, dedicated wheels, similar to those seen on the C6 Z06, would have been a welcomed addition.
With that being said, all credit goes to the incredible Corvette team for delivering yet another masterpiece. I can’t wait to see what they have in store for us next month. So, stay tuned, and prepare for a resounding “BRAVISSIMO”!
FAQs
Q: Will the 2018 ZR1 Corvette be available in different configurations?
A: Yes, the ZR1 will mirror the options of the C7 Z06, offering both coupe and convertible models with a choice between a 7-speed manual or 8-speed automatic transmission.
Q: What is the estimated base price of the ZR1?
A: Based on speculation, the starting price for the ZR1 is expected to be around $135,624, aligning with the previous C6 ZR1’s base price of $112,500.
Q: Are there any details about the ZR1’s suspension, brakes, wheels, or tires?
A: Unfortunately, the article does not provide specific information about these details. However, more information may be revealed in the future.
Conclusion
The Car and Driver cover story featuring the 2018 ZR1 Corvette has set the automotive world abuzz with excitement. With its powerful performance and stunning design, the ZR1 is undoubtedly one of the most highly anticipated cars of the year. While the article leaves us eager for more details, the sneak peek offered in the images is enough to leave any car enthusiast in awe. So, buckle up and get ready for the arrival of this remarkable Corvette. For the latest car news, visit Car news.