As gorgeous and potent as the new 2020 Corvette is, the mid-engine layout is not for everyone. That is why the 2019 Corvette ZR1 will shine in the history books as a proper end to an era. It is still available as a coupe or convertible, with a 7-speed manual or 8-speed automatic transmission. In stock form, the supercharged LT5 engine offers 755 horsepower and 715 lb-ft of torque. Known internally by Corvette Engineers as BAS (Big @SS Supercharger), Chevrolet was able to make this power mostly with the larger blower. That is where John Hennessey and his team realized the car’s potential. After working their magic, the Hennessey HPE1200 Corvette ZR1 lays down incredible numbers.
After removing the supercharger, it is ported by hand. It is then treated to a larger throttle body and two new pulleys. The heads are replaced by a pair of ported ones loaded with bigger valves and stronger springs. Toss in a custom ground camshaft and you have incredible power. Automatic owners are forced to upgrade the internals to handle the power, but the 7-speed stick can take the abuse. The final step is a full tank of E85 and tuning on the dyno. This allows it to make 1,200 horsepower and 1,066 lb-ft of torque. If you choose to run this car on 93 octane pump gas, power is limited to only 1,100 hp. So what does this mean in the quarter-mile? Tell us what you think of this car in the comments below. For more information email sales@hennesseyperformance.com or call 979-885-1300
Check out the wheelie @23 seconds!
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