Chevrolet Corvette C5 Z06


C5 Z06
Overview
Manufacturer Chevrolet
Production 2001–2004
Assembly Bowling Green, Kentucky, United States
Body and chassis
Body style 2-door hardtop coupé
Layout FMR layout
Platform Y-body
Powertrain
Engine 5.7 L LS6 V8
Transmission 6-speed manual
Dimensions
Wheelbase 104.5 in (2,654.3 mm)
Length 179.7 in (4,564.4 mm)
Width 73.6 in (1,869.4 mm)
Height 47.7 in (1,211.6 mm)
Curb weight 3,115 lb (1,413 kg)
Chronology
Predecessor Chevrolet Corvette C4 ZR-1
Successor Chevrolet Corvette C6 Z06
2004 Corvette Z06

The Chevrolet Corvette C5 Z06 is a high-performance version of the Corvette C5 sports car. Introduced by Chevrolet as their corporate and performance flagship, production began in 2001 and ended with the 2004 model year.

General

The successor to the ZR-1 made its debut in 2001 as the Z06, giving a nod to the high-performance Z06 version of the C2 Corvette of the 1960s (See the history below). Instead of a heavy, double-overhead cam engine like in the ZR-1, the Z06 used a high-output, tuned version of the standard LS1 Corvette engine (designated LS6), which initially produced 385 horsepower (287 kW). Although its total power output was less than that of the last ZR-1, the Z06 was much lighter, out-performing the ZR-1 in every category except top speed. It also cost substantially less than the ZR-1. Like with the ZR-1, Starting with the most structurally rigid body style offered, the hardtop or "fixed roof coupé" (FRC), an uprated FE4 suspension, larger wheel rims and tires, revised gearing ratios, and functional brake cooling ducts became part of the total package. The Z06 is 38 pounds lighter than a standard C5 hardtop thanks to weight-saving measures such as a titanium exhaust, thinner glass, lighter wheel rims, non-EMT tires, reduced sound proofing, fixed rear radio aerial, and a lighter battery.

Starting with the 2002 model year, the LS6 engine was uprated to 405 horsepower (302 kW) by means of a larger volume air intake, stiffer valve springs, lighter sodium filled valves, more aggressive cam phasing and lift, revised pistons, and revised block. While Chevrolet officially claimed that the ultimate power output of the LS6 was 405 horsepower (302 kW), many dynamometer tests have shown that Chevrolet underrated the engine by 20 hp (15 kW), giving it an actual total of 425 horsepower (317 kW).[1]

The Numbers

In 2001, 5,773 Z06s were manufactured in five different colors: Quicksilver, Speedway White, Black, Torch Red, and Millennium Yellow. The most popular color in 2001 was Black while Speedway White was optioned in the fewest Z06s. Z06 sales increased by over 40 percent in 2002. Millennium Yellow, Torch Red, Quicksilver, and Black were held over from 2001. Electron Blue replaced Speedway White. Black was still the most popular color with Millennium Yellow being the least favorite. Color offerings remained the same in 2003; however, while Black was still the most popular selection, Quicksilver became the least popular in a model year that saw 8,635 Z06s produced. With expectations of the C6 generation, the final year of the C5 Z06 produced only 5,683 vehicles. Torch Red, Millennium Yellow, and Black were held over for the end of the fifth generation. Le Mans blue replaced Electron Blue and Machine Silver replaced Quicksilver. Le Mans Blue was the most popular color by almost two to one over the next most popular color - black.

In all, 28,388 Z06s had been produced during the C5 generation representing approximately one out of every five corvettes manufactured during the 2001 - 2004 model years.

Performance

Factory performance figures for the 405 hp (302 kW) version of the Z06 give an acceleration time from 0-60 mph as 3.9 seconds. Owner-drivers have recorded quarter-mile times in the 12.4 - 11.55 second range. GM High Tech and Performance Magazine recorded 1/4 mile times of 11.97 seconds at 118.80 mph in their October 2004 issues for a 2004 Z06. Car and Driver recorded 1/4 mile times of 12.4 seconds for the 405 hp (302 kW) Z06 and 12.7 seconds for the 385 hp (287 kW) Z06 In their December 2002 issue. For a list of current 1/4 mile times for the C5 Z06; click HERE

Event Performance
0-60 mph 3.9 sec[2]
0-100 mph 9.2 sec[3]
0-100-0 mph 13.56 sec[3]
1/4 Mile 11.97 sec[4]
Skid Pad 1.03 G[3]
Top Speed 170 mph (270 km/h)
Nürburgring Nordschleife Lap Time * 7:56[5]

(Source:[6]) (Source:[7]) (Source:[8])

Z06 refinements

The Z06 received several other refinements in addition to its unique engine, transmission, suspension, wheels, and tires that either enhance functionality, differentiate its appearance from the base-model C5, or do both:

LS6 engine

Cutaway diagram of Z06 Corvette LS6 Engine

The Z06 uses a high-output version of the LS1 small-block engine. The name was changed to LS6 after substantial modifications. The new engine powerplant produces about 12% more power than the LS1 and looks identical in external appearance save for the red engine covers. The LS6 produces 405 horsepower (302 kW) at 6000 rpm, and 400 lb·ft (542 N·m) at 4800 rpm. The engine redlines at 6500 rpm (versus the LS1's 6000 rpm redline).

The LS6 utilizes an aluminum block which has been modified to allow greater bay-to-bay breathing. Typically the LS1 engine allows too much air in its crankcase developing into parasitic loss of power. The LS6 relieves this unwanted pressure translating into a removal of parasitic loss thus gaining more power.

The LS6 utilizes modified versions of the LS1 pistons. The new pistons are made from M142 aluminum alloy which has proved to be stronger and more durable than the material used in the LS1. The pistons have been reshaped to have a slight barrel shape difficult to see for the normal onlooker. The new design also reduces internal mechanical noise because of its increased efficiency.

The LS6 cylinder heads have been cast with pent-roof combustion chambers. This modification of the LS1 has decreased the cylinder size thus promoting a greater Compression ratio; from 10.1:1 to 10.5:1. The LS6 ports have been cast using tighter tolerances which has resulted in increased power, thermal efficiency, and increased volumetric efficiency.

The LS6 utilizes a camshaft constructed from steel billet materials. The timing of the camshaft has been altered by increasing the lift from those of the LS1 to provide quicker opening times. To accommodate higher lift and longer duration of the camshaft the valve springs have been manufactured to become stiffer. The springs are wound tighter than those in the LS1 which results in stronger springs able to handle the increased strain from the camshaft. These modifications result in more efficient air-flow into the combustion chambers and thus an increase in power.

The LS6 utilizes new and larger fuel injectors. The new injectors deliver 3.6 grams of fuel per second, an increase of 10% above the LS1. The injectors were designed to deliver more fuel as a result of the increase in air flow from the increased compression and camshaft opening duration modifications. The fuel to air mixture ratio needs to remain proportional to achieve operational status.

The LS6 utilizes a newly designed Positive Crankcase Ventilation valve. The new PCV valve now rests in the "V" of the engine. The "V" aluminum cover contains composite oil separating baffles with unique tubing. This results in less overall oil tubing thus reducing the probability of multiple oil leak sources. The presence of the oil baffles also reduces oil consumption and increases the performance capabilities of the ventilation system during high-performance maneuvers (greater than 0.55 lateral G) which the Z06 is capable of.

The LS6 utilizes newly designed exhaust manifolds. These manifolds are constructed of cast-iron material and have been designed to reduce weight by utilizing thin walls.

Active Handling

In 1998 General Motors developed a system called "Active Handling" which has a stability control feature that uses on-board sensors to measure the vehicle's lateral acceleration, yaw rate, and steering wheel position. These sensors work in conjunction with the vehicle's Anti-lock braking system and traction control system which automatically assist a vehicle's driver in understeering and oversteering situations. The Z06 came standard with the second generation "Active Handling" system. The second generation system added the following substantial improvements to the original system:

The second-generation Active Handling system utilizes the Bosch version 5.3 hydraulic pressure modulator. Bosch improved this version to become smaller, quieter and more efficient at lower temperatures. The new modulator can operate at -4 °F (-20 °C) resulting in accelerated functioning capacity after cold startups. The pressure sensor originally located in the master cylinder was also integrated into the new pressure modulator.

The second-generation Active Handling system utilizes a newly designed dynamic rear brake proportioning system. The new enhancement is a software driven improvement which balances the rear brake pressure electronically thus preventing rear brake bias also known as "Brake Lockup". The new system replaces the physically standard brake proportioning valve and its tubing components thus reducing weight and overall complexity.

The second-generation Active Handling system received a major addition in the form of a sideslip angle rate control. This addition is software based and senses a driver's response time to changing vehicle movements during handling maneuvers. The system compensates for driver errors by utilizing the vehicles braking and traction control systems to maintain the stability of the vehicle based upon the parameters programmed by General Motors.

The second-generation Active Handling system received another software upgrade in the form of improved calibration algorithms that estimate the friction coefficient of road surfaces. As traction on roads decreases (such as slippery road surfaces), a vehicle is biased towards slipping sideways. The new coefficient estimation takes this traction problem into account and factors it in with the rest of the Active Handling system inputs.

The second-generation Active Handling system also added another software enhancement in the form of a rear brake stability control. This addition releases brake pressure on the inside rear wheel during high lateral acceleration maneuvers. This system assists drivers who do not estimate radius turns correctly during high speed and light braking. The system compensates for driver errors by utilizing the vehicle's braking system thus allowing for a more predictable maneuver while keeping the vehicle on its initial vector.

As has already been stated the Active Handling system works in conjunction with the Traction Control System. The second generation system continues this relationship but has been modified and refined to target specific rear brake pressures and control engine torque based upon the parameters programmed by General Motors. This modification results in improved acceleration and fewer engine sags.

The second-generation Active Handling system incorporated into the Z06 has a unique featured labeled "Competitive Mode". When activated this feature turns the vehicle's Traction Control system off while still employing all the other components of the "Active Handling" system. To enable this feature a driver merely presses down on the Active Handling button for five seconds. This can be done even while the vehicle is in motion.

Sensors

The Second-Generation Active Handling System provides better performance with less perceived intrusion, and is more adept than the original system in controlling the vehicle whenever necessary. The improved agility of the vehicle allows average drivers to perform better during spirited driving, and provides a greater safety margin in emergency situations.

Summary of Active Handling System Modes

Three different modes are provided in the Active Handling System:

The "OFF" and "COMPETITIVE DRIVING" modes are important features on a high-performance sports car, as skilled drivers may find that some wheelspin and oversteer can be beneficial to their lap times in competitive events. The Corvette's system allows them to operate the car in this fashion when appropriate, although Chevrolet recommends against selecting these modes for street use.[2]

Transmission

The Z06 utilizes the specially built M12 6-speed manual transmission. While outwardly similar to the base-model MM6 manual transmission, the M12 transmission is unique to the Z06, and not available on other Corvettes, i.e., coupés and convertibles. The M12 has more aggressive gearing to increase torque multiplication in most forward gears, allowing for more rapid acceleration and more usable torque at higher speeds. A transmission temperature sensor was added to protect the M12 from higher thermal stresses. The sensor warns the driver, via the Driver Information Center, with a "TRANS OVER TEMP" message if transmission temperatures approach their operating limits, and which could lead to damage if the transmission were not allowed to cool down. As with all C5 Corvettes, the transmission is located toward the rear of the vehicle, as a rear-mounted transaxle assembly. This allows a better overall weight distribution for the vehicle, as the weight of the transmission offsets some of the weight of the forward-sitting engine.

The M12 6-speed causes the Z06 model of C5 Corvette to have a lower top speed than a normal C5 despite having a higher RPM limit and more power, this is due to its gearing.

Gear ratio comparisons of MM6 (base-model C5) vs. M12 (Z06):

Gear LS1/MM6 LS6/M12
1st Gear 2.66:1 2.97:1
2nd Gear 1.78:1 2.07:1
3rd Gear 1.30:1 1.43:1
4th Gear 1.00:1 1.00:1
5th Gear 0.74:1 0.84:1
6th Gear 0.50:1 0.56:1
Reverse 2.90:1 3.28:1
Axle Ratio varies 3.42:1
Final Drive Ratio varies 1.91:1

[2]

Suspension

A special suspension (the FE4) was developed exclusively for the Z06, and is not available on other Corvette models. It features unique shock calibrations, a larger front stabilizer bar, a stiffer rear leaf spring, and revised camber settings — all calibrated with a bias toward maximum control during high-speed operation.[2]

Specifications

The greater negative wheel camber used on the Z06 helps to keep the tire flatter in relation to the road, and increases the tire contact patch for greater grip while cornering. When coupled with other special Z06 components, the combination provides exceptional racetrack performance.[2]

Nürburgring Circuit

These suspension refinements came as a result of extensive testing and development including several high-speed test sessions at Germany's famed Nürburgring circuit. The 2004 Corvette C5 Z06 is one of only a few cars to have broken the 8-minute barrier for lap times at the Nürburgring circuit[5] (see Nordschleife fastest lap times for complete list). However, the Corvette testing at Nürburgring wasn't just about raw speed: engineers learned important lessons about tuning the chassis to enhance the poise, confidence, and "smoothness of response;" attributes that become increasingly important when subjected to the severe demands of a 14-mile (23 km) course that has approximately 170 turns, and virtually constant elevation changes. "Nürburgring, at the extreme edge of the envelope, provides conditions that can't be easily duplicated anywhere else," said David Hill, vehicle line executive and Corvette chief engineer. "But, even for the Z06, we spend considerable time ensuring we don't make adjustments that compromise the normal daily driving character of the car." (Source:[10])

Wheels

Also unique to the C5 Z06 are wider wheel rims and tires, which increase contact with the road and are essential to providing better grip. The design aesthetics of the new wheel rims are also one of the visual identifiers for the Z06, and are the most mass-efficient aluminum wheels ever produced for Corvette. They are painted a light gray metallic, and serve to show off the red brake calipers used on the Z06, especially when the car is in motion. The center cap of each rim also displays the red Corvette "crossed-flags" emblem for added identification at rest.

Wheel Size Comparison

Base-model C5 Z06
Front Wheels 17 in x 8.5 in 17 in x 9.5 in
Rear Wheels 18 in x 9.5 in 18 in x 10.5 in

[2]

Tires

Goodyear specifically designed new wider, "grippier" tires for the Z06. Called Goodyear Eagle F1 SC (Supercar) tires, they allowed the Z06 to handle, brake, and perform better than any production Corvette yet tested. These same tires can be found on other super-high-performance vehicles such as the Ford GT, and differ from the Goodyear Eagle F1 GS EMT tires provided as factory equipment on C5 coupés and convertibles as follows:

Tire Size Comparison

2001 C5
Eagle F1 GS		 2001 Z06
Eagle F1 SC
Front P245/45ZR-17 P265/40ZR-17
Rear P275/40ZR-18 P295/35ZR-18

[2]

Titanium exhaust

The 26-pound titanium muffler and tailpipe assembly of the Z06 replaced the 44-pound stainless steel system used in the base-model C5. Titanium has a natural oxide layer that provides immunity to external corrosion from road salts, as well as to internal corrosion from sulfur-rich engine exhaust. Although common in 2010, titanium exhausts were very rare when the Corvette Z06 was developed in 2001. At that time the manufacturing technology to produce titanium mufflers in mass-market quantities didn't exist. Working with TIMET to optimize an exhaust grade of titanium, ArvinMeritor, the manufacturer of the GM system, adapted its stainless steel stamping, bending, cold forming and welding methods to accommodate the structural differences between stainless steel and titanium.

24 Hours of Le Mans Commemorative Edition

For the 2004 model year, a 24 Hours of Le Mans Commemorative Edition of the Z06 (dubbed the Z16 after its RPO code) was offered in celebration of the C5-R "1-2" in-class finishes at Le Mans. The option package consisted of a special paint color ("Le Mans Blue Metallic"); wide, silver-and-red stripes optionally applied down the center of the car; a carbon fiber hood (saving an additional 10 pounds of weight); special commemorative badging and headrest embroidery; and brightly polished wheel rims (a first on the Z06) with unique centercaps. Though not as outwardly apparent, the Z16 also received shock damping tuning for improved handling. The Z16 was the most produced Z06 in 2004 totaling 2025 units; of that number, 325 went overseas, leaving North America with approximately 1700.

History of the Z06 and LS6

Z06

Zora Arkus-Duntov, legendary Corvette Guru.

In 1962, Zora Duntov, Chief engineer at General Motors (GM) first brought forth the concept of the Z06 following a ban on factory-sponsored racing by the SCCA. Duntov knew customers would continue to race Corvettes even though the ban, which initially had full support from GM management, was in effect. During the planning of the Sting Ray project, Duntov suggested that it would be a good idea to continue with parts development in order to benefit racers, and as a way of surreptitiously circumventing the racing ban. Eventually, when GM management relented from their support of the ban, Duntov and his colleagues created "RPO Z06" as a special performance equipment package for the Corvette. The Regular Production Option (RPO) was a GM internal ordering code designation. The package was specifically designed for competition-minded buyers, so they could order a race-ready Corvette straight from the factory with just one check of an option box. Previously, the optional racing parts were literally hidden in the order form so that only the most knowledgeable and perceptive customers could find them. The RPO Z06 package was first offered on 1963 Corvette, and included:[2]

These Corvettes came to be known as "Big Tanks" because the package initially included a 36.5-gallon gas tank (versus the standard 20-gallon) for races such as Sebring and Daytona. Initially, the package was available only on coupés, as the oversized tank would not fit in the convertible, although the rest of the Z06 option package was later made available on convertibles as well.

Thus, the 1963 Corvette was technically the first Corvette that could be designated as "Z06." The only engine option on the Z06 was the L84 327 cu in (5.4 L) engine using Rochester fuel injection. With factory exhaust manifolds, required to run the cars in the SCCA production classes, Chevrolet rated the engine at 360 horsepower (270 kW). The Z06 option cost an additional $1,818.45 over the base coupé price of $4,252. Chevrolet later lowered the package price and eliminated the larger gas tank from the Z06 package, though it remained available as an add-on option for any coupé. All told, Chevrolet produced 199 of these "original" Z06s.

LS6

In 1971, Zora Duntov's team created a special 425 brake horsepower (317 kW) big-block V8 for the Corvette, again with racing in mind. GM offered this as the "LS6" engine RPO for just one year: a 454 cu in (7.4 L), cast-iron engine with aluminum heads. In terms of both power and legend, these original LS6 engine were second only to the L88 full-blown racing engine offered from 1967 through 1969. The LS6 produced 425 brake horsepower (317 kW) and was the most powerful engine offered in 1971. Only 188 cars were produced with this powerplant — less than 1% of Corvette's production run of 21,801 vehicles for the model year. The LS6 option price was $1,221.00, or 22% of the $5,496.00 sticker price for the 1971 Corvette C3 coupé. When tested by a leading automotive magazine, an LS6-equipped C3 with a four-speed manual and a 3.36:1 limited-slip differential produced the following numbers:

Also during that model year, a ZR2 RPO package was offered, priced at $1,747.00. The ZR2 package included the LS6 engine; a heavy-duty, close-ratio four-speed manual transmission; heavy-duty power brakes; transistorized ignition; lightweight aluminum radiator; special springs, shocks, and front and rear stabilizer bars. Twelve ZR2-equipped C3 Corvettes were produced, making them far more rare than the Z06-equipped C2 Corvettes.

Resurgence

Z06 fender emblem appearing on 2002-2004 C5 Z06 Corvettes

The Z06 and LS6 name designations were resurrected in the fall of 2000 as a new performance package for the 2001 model year of the C5. Using the previously introduced FRC body style, the Z06 option offered improved suspension components and, initially, a 385 hp (287 kW) engine designated as "LS6." The modern LS6 is an improved, high-output version of the base-model C5's 350 horsepower (260 kW) LS1 engine, but recalled the mighty 425 hp (317 kW), 454 cubic inch big block of 1971. For the 2002 model year, the LS6 was further refined and rated at 405 horsepower (302 kW); this power increase was achieved through deletion of two of the catalytic converters in the exhaust system, improvements to the air induction system, and a more aggressive camshaft along with a lighter valvetrain. Correspondingly, Z06 Corvettes produced from 2002 until 2004 displayed unique "405 HP" badges on both front fenders as a testament of the vehicle's engine power.

See also

Wikimedia Commons has media related to Chevrolet Corvette C5.

Notes

  1. ↑ "Supercar Killer Chevy's '04 Z06 does 11s bone stock-and so much more". Gmhightechperformance.com. Retrieved 2010-09-30.
  2. ↑ 2.0 2.1 2.2 2.3 2.4 2.5 2.6 2.7 2.8 Staff, GM (2000). 2001 Specialist's Data Book Corvette. Michigan: Gail & Rice Productions, Inc. p. 48.
  3. ↑ 3.0 3.1 3.2 Car & Driver 2002 Z06 Performance Review 0-100-0
  4. ↑ http://www.gmhightechperformance.com/features/0410htp_2004_z06_corvette_feature/index.html |title=Supercar Killer |date=2004-10
  5. ↑ 5.0 5.1 "Ask Dave Hill, December Edition". crossedflags.com. Retrieved 2008-01-04.
  6. ↑ Facebook User (2010-04-23). "The world’s fastest cars from 0-100-0 mph (in order)". Gizmag.com. Retrieved 2010-09-30.
  7. ↑ http://www.gmhightechperformance.com/features/0410htp_2004_z06_corvette_feature/index.html |title=Supercar Killer |date=2004-10
  8. ↑ http://forums.corvetteforum.com/c5-z06-discussion/2697726-c5-z06-fast-list-only.html
  9. ↑ 2004 Corvette Z06 Coupe Specifications
  10. ↑ "2004 Chevrolet Corvette: Commemorative Edition Celebrates Racing Success, and Improves the C5 Breed". Corvettemuseum.com. 2003-04-17. Retrieved 2010-09-30.
Chevrolet Corvette timeline, 1953–present
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Performance Fuel Injection Z06 Big Block ZR-1 LT4 Z06 Z06 Z06
L84 Big Block LT1 ZR1
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