The couple had owned the Hyundai Genesis for 9 months and the Z06 for only a few hours when all hell broke loose on a rainy Massachusetts freeway after leaving the Chevy dealership. A quick shift in traffic necessitated a quick reversal of speed from 60 mph down to 30 mph; a change his wife unfortunately did not notice. She barreled into the rear of the Z06 which then, under the slippery conditions, ran into the car next in line, resulting in just over $16,000 in damage to the Genesis and nearly $10,000 for the Z06.

Below are some of the highlights of the Z06 repair bill:

headlamps (HID) @ $992.21 a piece x 2
impact bar & energy asorber @ $765.49
front grille @ $144.07
fog lamp assy @ $168.15
radiator assy @ $549.05
air quality sensor @ $238.50
temp sensor @ $46.29
fan assy @ $425.18
condensor @ $342.58
hood @ $614.04
fenders @ $312.28 x 2
windshield @ $785.81

The $26,000 repair estimate doesn't include the car that the Z06 hit. Add it all up and this family's got one hell of an insurance rate spike coming their way. According to Zedbuyers the "morale of the story is don't let the wife follow you, and for god's sakes don't run the front of one of these things (Z06) into anything."

We'd listen to the man. Well, about the whole running the front of one of these things into anything. The sexist drivel? Not so much. [via GenesisOwners]

We know what you're probably thinking and to be perfectly honest, we were thinking it too. This is not another commemorative package, nor is it a sticker package, instead the 2010 Corvette Grand Sport is a bonafide performance package that will help to distinguish the different Corvette models even more so.

Chevrolet's plan is to rid the lineup of the Z51 package Vettes, instead replacing it with a uniquely designed new Grand Sport model. Everything that you know and love about the Z51 will be here, but now, with the help of new Z06-derived bodywork you won't be confused with those driving lesser base-model Vettes.

The 6.2-liter LS3 V8 remains, pumping out the same extremely capable 430 horsepower and 424 lb-ft or torque (436 horsepower and 428 lb-ft with the optional two-mode sport exhaust) and is easily manipulated to do your bidding through either a six-speed manual or six-speed automatic transmission. The Grand Sport's calipers are distinguished by their silver with red lettering and the rotors have been enlarged to Z06-spec, 14-inch with six-piston calipers in front and 13.4-inch with four-piston grabbers in the rear. Also equipped are revised shock/spring settings and heavier duty stabilizer bars. The 2010 Grand Sport rides on unique 18-inch front and 19-inch rear wheels wrapped in sticky 275/35ZR18 and 325/30ZR19 tires, front and rear.

For those that opt to equip their Grand Sport with the six-speed manual transmission, Chevrolet will throw in a dry-sump oiling system, differential cooler and a rear-mounted battery. All-in-all, these improvements should net an enthusiastic 2010 Grand Sport driver with a 0.2-second improvement over the existing Z51-model.

The Grand Sport can be equipped in either Coupe or Convertible body styles, but regardless of which you choose, you'll be rewarded with a wider Z06-style front fascia with a Z06 lower lip spoiler, the only thing missing is the scoop on the nose. Z06-width front fenders replace the stock Vette's with a Grand Sport badge sitting atop dual vertical gills. The rear fenders have been replaced with Z06 units with functional brake cooling ducts. You can have your Grand Sport in any available Corvette color as well as all four different available trim levels (1LT, 2LT, 3LT and 4LT). A heritage package is also available, adding a pair of dual stripes on the front fenders in either silver or red. The interior features special Grand Sport embroidery on the seat head rests.

The 2010 Corvette Grand Sport is publicly being announced at the 12th annual C5/C6 Corvette Birthday Bash at the National Corvette Museum in Bowling Green, Kentucky this weekend. Pricing is yet to be announced, but expect it to be somewhere around current Z51-package pricing. We'll take ours in Coupe-spec painted in Le Mans Blue (Okay fine, Jet Stream Blue) with the red stripes please.

[via GM]

Swapping large displacement V8s into small roadsters has always been a favorite thing to do when we're bored in the States, but the idea of swapping a 7.0 liter Corvette Z06 LS7 into a small economy car has never really caught on. The guys at Fourdin Auto Sport in Europe must have either gotten really bored or drunk one day and decided to try their hand at the swap. We don't get the super small Chevy Matiz here in the States, but if we did, we're sure a few enterprising young enthusiasts would try just the same.

Corvette-Powered Chevy Matiz At Monza:

The Chevy Matiz originally came equipped with a measly in-line 3 cylinder squirting out an embarrassing 65 horsepower; enough to net you some pretty good gas mileage we're sure. In July of 2007, the Fourdin team set out on a 13 month, 1,500 hour adventure to squeeze the 7.0 liter behemoth in the little clown car. The standard 1 liter engine could reach 60 mph at a crawling pace of just under 22 seconds, but the meaty, snarling 7.0 liter 550 horsepower V8 will get you there in an exotic crowd pleasing 3.7 seconds and will continue on to a terminal velocity of 162 mph.

Yves Fourdin, the project lead and Fourdin Auto Sport founder, had this to say:

"The realization of this project is the result of brains, passion and time. We did it without engineers and without computers, but as a close group of friends with a lot of passion for motorsport. The detail level of the car is therefore absolute. After more than 1 500 hours of work, we are proud of the result."

It just goes to show that without enough brains (and likely enough Heineken), you can turn any little econo-hatchcrap into a insane screaming beast. We want one, like yesterday.

[via autoblog.nl]

The new Corvette GT-1 "Competition" Edition was announced at the NCRS meet in Florida last week by Tom Hill, the Quality Engineering Manager at the Corvette Bowling Green Assembly Plant. He revealed that the limited edition package would be named GT-1 Competition Edition and would start to roll off the line in the Spring.

The GT-1 Competition Edition will reportedly be available on the Coupe, Convertible and Z06 models and will include everyone's favorite Corvette racing mascot, "Jake." For those of you who don't know "Jake," shame on you, but take a peak at the 2007 Laguna Seca-winning Corvette C6R for the most prominent view, or just lift up the hood on a ZR1 to find him hiding on the embossed intake runner.

The package will be available in either 45U Velocity Yellow with black stripes or 41U Black with yellow stripes with "Jake" set within the stripe graphic. Of course, "Jake" won't be the only thing displayed on the GT-1 edition. Additional Corvette Racing-inspired graphics will include a yellow windshield banner, C6R driver's names on the roof, a list of won championships on the lower door, and black headlamps on the Velocity Yellow models. Also included are Genuine Corvette Accessories like body-colored door handles, carbon fiber-patterned engine covers, ZR1 full width spoiler in body color and five-spoke Q9V forged chrome wheels.

The Z51 Performance Package will be included with the Coupe and Convertible models as well as the NPP Performance Exhaust. The already high performance Z06 will carry on as is.

It won't matter which model you choose because each GT-1 Edition interior will feature exclusive GT-1 embroidered seats and console lid. If you select the Ebony 4LT package on the Coupe and Convertible or the 3LZ package on the Z06, you'll receive interiors and a shifter accentuated with yellow stitching. If your neighbors couldn't already tell, GM wants to make sure that everyone knows that you've got something special by giving each car a console trim plate with specific VIN sequencing and a numbered certificate of authenticity.

Does this sound a lot like the recently revealed 2009 Corvette Competition Sport Package? It should because this is basically just another stickered up, special edition Corvette meant to bolster sales. Sounds to us like GM is taking a chapter out of the recent Mustang history books. What's next, a Corvette Thanks-For-The-Bailout-Money Edition? Geez, just give us a C7 already.

Corvette GT-1 Competition Edition pricing and availability will be revealed in February.

[via Corvetteblogger]

Keep in mind a regular 2009 Corvette Coupe 1LT with the Z51 performance package and NPP performance exhaust is $52,305 and a Z06 1LZ is $74,775. What do you think — is it a good value? Here again is what we've been told to expect:

2009 Competition Sport Corvette (RPO CSC)
Chevrolet introduces a new Corvette package available for a limited time

The Competition Sport package is for the Corvette purist and driving enthusiast
Perfect Corvette for the enthusiast who attends driving schools and track events
Focus on lightweight and performance driving
Serious track influenced design features
Excellent value pricing - Limited build scheduled for Spring '09 only

Included in the package:
Competition Gray Exterior Stripes, Wheels, and Headlamps
Corvette Racing ‘Jake’ and CSR logos on b-pillar, headrest, and center armrest
-Ebony Interior with titanium embroidery
-Corvette Racing Pedals from GCA
-Special engine cover
-Racing style numbers with number based on build sequence to be installed by customer

Available in either Coupe 1LT with 436 hp or Z06 1LZ with 505 hp versions
-Z06 version available in 17U Blade Silver or 41U Black
Coupe version available in 17U Blade Silver or 10U Arctic White
Coupe version also includes in package:
Z51 Performance Package, NPP Performance Exhaust, Differential Cooler
Head Up Display
Red Painted Brake Calipers
Z06 tall spoiler

The 638 HP 2009 Corvette ZR1's price of $103,000 (let's pretend for a moment vagaries such as dealer markup don't exist) has a cost per HP of $162. While not the best deal on price per HP, it's still a steal. But this pricing on the 2008 Corvette Z06 brings the cost per HP war to a whole new level — dropping the already amazingly value-rrific cost per HP down from $143 (already lower than the Nissan GT-R and Dodge Viper according to our official Jalopnik "By The Numbers" comparison chart ) to the staggeringly bargain level of $124 per HP!

The Z06 was already the over-used "value champ," (We need a quarter jar for every time we're using the word value in this post, don't we?) but this new deal truly offers the chance to bring high horsepower to the masses. There's simply no better deal out there. Even Suze Orman would approve.

This will be a return to a familiar place for Fittipaldi, considering he won two CART races at Belle Isle, in 1989 and 1991. The Corvette itself is pretty slick in its color-shifting paint, moving between gold and green. Way better than the '98 Corvette Indy Pace Car dressed in terrifying purple and yellow. It's kind of shocking, but even the light bar up top is kinda cool. That right there is one fine-looking pace car.

Chevrolet's Special '427 Limited Edition Z06' Salutes Classic 427 Corvettes

DETROIT - Chevrolet announced the 2008 Corvette 427 Limited Edition Z06, a limited-production model that pays homage to the big-block Stingray models of the mid-1960s. The 427 designation refers to the cubic-inch displacement for the highest-performance engines offered between 1966 and '69 - and is also the cubic-inch equivalent of the Z06's 7.0L LS7 small-block V-8.

The 427 Limited Edition Z06 features a Crystal Red Tintcoat exterior, the first Z06 ever offered with a red metallic tintcoat paint. It also features graphics on the hood and fascia that evoke the style of the famed "stinger" hood design and graphics that were offered with 1967 models equipped with the 427 engine. Also unique to this model are "427" hood badges. Each example is numbered and signed by Wil Cooksey, the Corvette assembly plant manager who is retiring after 15 years on the job, and comes with a certificate of authenticity.

"The heritage of the 427 designation with the Corvette is legendary," said Harlan Charles, Corvette product manager. "Recognizing the tie-in of the original 427 engine and the LS7's 427-inch displacement has been on the Corvette team's mind since the Z06 was introduced, and we're thrilled to express it in this special model."

Available under order code Z44, this special Z06 enters production this spring. Only 427 will be offered in the United States and Canada, with 78 more exported outside North America. That's a total of 505 production vehicles - the same number of horsepower produced by the LS7 engine.

The special-edition Corvette carries a MSRP of $84,195 and includes the 3LZ premium equipment package with a custom, leather-wrapped interior. A navigation system is the only option ($1,750). As with other Corvette models, customer delivery is available at the Corvette Museum, in Bowling Green, Ky.

A breakdown of the 427 Limited Edition Z06's unique content includes:

* Crystal Red Tintcoat exterior paint with stinger-style graphics and 427 hood badges
* Exclusive, new chrome wheels
* Body-color rear spoiler and door handles
* Exclusive dark titanium custom leather-wrapped interior
* Special Crystal Red interior trim plate graphic pattern
* Console armrest signed and numbered by Wil Cooksey
* "427"-embroidered seats and floor mats
* "Z06" sill plates

The 427 Limited Edition Z06 joins the Indy 500 Pace Car replica - available in coupe and convertible configurations - as the second limited-production Corvette model introduced for 2008, giving enthusiasts and collectors a wealth of choices. In January, Chevrolet also announced the 2009 Corvette ZR1, which enters production later this summer.

"There's never been a better time to be a Corvette enthusiast," said Charles. "The performance and refinement are exemplary and special editions, like the 427 model, enrich the heritage of America's sports car."

Corvette Z06 details

The Corvette Z06 that is the foundation for the 427 Limited Edition offers carefully executed levels of capability and technology, making it one of the best performance values on the market.

The Z06's LS7 7.0L engine reintroduced the 427-cubic-inch engine to the Corvette lineup. It uses racing-derived lightweight technology, including titanium connecting rods and intake valves, to help boost horsepower and rpm capability - it is rated at 505 horsepower (377 kW).* The only transmission offered with the Z06 is a six-speed manual.

In the car's 3,162-pound (1,437 kg) package, the LS7 engine helps deliver 0-60 mph performance of 3.7 seconds in first gear, quarter-mile times of 11.7 seconds at 125 mph and a top speed of 198 mph (as recorded on Germany's Autobahn) - the Z06 also circuited Germany's famed N ü rburgring racetrack in a time of 7:43.

The Z06 has a unique aluminum body structure for optimum stiffness and light weight for the fixed-roof body style. Perimeter rails are one-piece hydroformed aluminum members featuring cast suspension nodes, which replace many welded steel components on other Corvette models. Advanced structural composites featuring carbon fiber are bonded to the aluminum structure. Wider front wheelhouses, for example, are carbon composites and the passenger compartment floors combine carbon-fiber skins with an ultra-lightweight balsa wood core.

A firm, race-proven suspension works harmoniously with large 18 x 9.5-inch cast-spun aluminum wheels and 275/35ZR18 tires in the front, and 19 x 12-inch cast-spun aluminum wheels with 325/30ZR19 tires in the rear to achieve lateral acceleration of more than 1 g. Complementing the suspension system and large rolling stock is an equally capable four-wheel disc brake system, consisting of 14-inch (355 mm) vented and cross-drilled front rotors and 13.4-inch (340 mm) vented and cross-drilled rear rotors.

The front rotors are acted upon by large, red-painted six-piston calipers that use six individual brake pads. Individual brake pads are used because they deliver more equalized wear compared to what would otherwise be a pair of very long single-piece pads. For the rear brakes, four-piston calipers with four individual brake pads are used. A Delphi four-channel ABS system is standard, as is a very competent active handling system - complete with a Competitive Driving mode.

History of the Corvette and the 427 engine

The Chevrolet Mark IV V-8 debuted in the Corvette in 1965 and was dubbed the big-block, because it was physically larger in all respects than Chevy's other V-8 engine, which became known as the small-block. In '65, the big-block was offered in a 396-cubic-inch displacement, with a maximum rating of 425 gross horsepower (317 kW). In 1966, the big-block received larger cylinder bores and grew to its legendary 427-cubic-inch form. It came in two power levels: 390 hp (291 kW) and 425 hp.

By 1967, the Corvette's 427 engine was a legend in its own time and was offered with a unique induction system that featured an inline trio of two-barrel carburetors. Known as the "L71" (its order code), it was characterized by a large, chrome triangular air cleaner assembly. It was rated at 435 gross horsepower (324 kW). The '67 big-block Corvettes were easily distinguished from their small-block brethren by a raised "stinger" hood.

A handful of Corvettes with the "L88"-code 427 engine slipped out of the factory in 1967, each rated at 430 horsepower (321 kW), but the L88 would be more closely associated with the redesigned 1968 and '69 models. The L88 breathed through a single four-barrel carburetor rather than the L71's three two-barrels. The triple-carburetor induction system was still available, however, as the Corvette was offered with both the L88 and L71 versions of the 427.

No less than six versions of the engine were offered in 1969, the final year for the 427. They included the L88, the L71 and a very rare ZL1 427 that was built with a lightweight aluminum cylinder block. Only two regular-production Corvettes were built with the ZL1 engine, putting them on the short list of the most collectible Corvettes in history.

The big-block increased in size to 454 cubic inches in 1970, and the original big-block engine family exited the Corvette lineup after the 1974 model year. The 2008 Corvette Z06's LS7 engine offers big-block displacement and horsepower, but in a more efficient small-block architecture.

*SAE certified.

SPECTER WERKES/SPORTS ANNOUNCES NEW C6 CORVETTE GTR

TROY, Mich. - Specter Werkes/Sports announced the all-new, C6-based Corvette GTR - the successor to the limited-edition C5 GTR program that helped forge the company's reputation as a Corvette performance and styling specialist a decade ago.

Retaining the intrinsic character of the Corvette, the GTR enhances its appearance, performance and luxury quotient. It is available on all C6 Corvette models, including the base coupe and convertible, the Z06 and even the forthcoming ZR1.

"The GTR is the Corvette for enthusiasts who want an exclusive, distinctive automobile," said Jeff Nowicki, Specter Werkes/Sports president and founder. "It's an uncompromising combination of great looks and racetrack-capable performance."

Featuring the use of exposed carbon fiber details on the exterior, the GTR package includes:
∑ Unique GTR bodywork, including: front fascia, carbon fiber splitter, extractor hood, front fenders, doors, rocker panels, rear fenders, rear fascia, carbon fiber rear diffuser, Cleartastic paint protection, paint and assembly
∑ Headlamp bezels with exposed carbon fiber appearance
∑ Unique tail lamps and CHMSL
∑ Michelin Pilot Sport 2 Zero PressTires; 335ZR2520 (rear) and 285ZR3019 (front)
∑ Forgeline or HRE wheels; 19-inch in the front and 20-inch in the rear
∑ Carbon fiber fuel rail covers and carbon fiber, low-restriction air box
∑ Hotchkis stablilizer bar kit
∑ GTR-embroidered seats and serial-numbered dash plaque
∑ Stainless steel performance exhaust system
∑ GTR badges
∑ Mobil 1 Synthetic Fluids

The Corvette GTR package carries a base price of $34,995, with a variety of high-performance powertrain options available for additional cost. Production is expected to begin this spring, with each vehicle hand-built, numbered and fully documented for the customer.

The Specter Werkes/Sports GTR was first launched a decade ago and saw the creation of nearly 30 specialized cars that were delivered across the country - including the two most notable GTRs, which were created for Dale Earnhardt Sr. and Jr., in 2001.

Specter Werkes/Sports was founded in 1990 by Nowicki, a Corvette racer and car designer.

Chevrolet Unveils Two Unique '08 Corvette Indy 500 Pace Cars

Two-time Indy 500 Champion Emerson Fittipaldi to Drive Corvette Z06 E85 Concept Pace Car at 92nd Indianapolis 500

INDIANAPOLIS - Known for their charismatic designs and superior performance, the pack-leading pace cars share a special place in Indianapolis 500 lore. History will be made at the 2008 Indianapolis 500 when a pair of distinctive yet highly differentiated Corvette models will serve as the official pace cars - one highlighting Chevrolet's commitment to fuel solutions and the other marking 30 years of Corvette's pace car heritage.

Chevrolet and Indianapolis Motor Speedway officials gathered at the Indianapolis Auto Show to make the historic announcement.

One of the pace cars is a customized Corvette Z06 E85 concept that runs on E85 ethanol fuel, a domestically produced alternative fuel similar to the E100 fuel that powers all of the racecars in the IndyCar Series. It will be driven during the race's pace lap by two-time Indianapolis 500 champion Emerson Fittipaldi.

The other official pace car is a black-and-silver commemorative edition that marks the 30th anniversary of the celebrated 1978 pace car - the first Corvette to pace the field at the Indianapolis 500. Chevrolet will produce a total of 500 pace car replicas in both coupe and convertible form, each signed personally by Fittipaldi at the Corvette's Bowling Green, Ky., assembly plant.

"Although not a production FlexFuel vehicle, the Corvette Z06 E85 concept pace car is a high-performance example of Chevrolet's gas-friendly to gas-free initiative, demonstrating viable fuel solutions," said Ed Peper, Chevrolet general manager. "As an ethanol refiner in his native Brazil, Emerson Fittipaldi is the fitting Chevrolet champion to help support GM's efforts with E85 and celebrate 30 years of the Corvette pacing the Indianapolis 500."

The 92nd Indianapolis 500 takes place on Sunday, May 25, 2008. It will be the Corvette's 10th appearance as the official pace car - a record unmatched by any other vehicle.

"It's only fitting that Corvette will be the first car to earn the distinction of having two models pace the Indianapolis 500 in the same year," said Joie Chitwood, Indianapolis Motor Speedway president and chief operating officer. "Chevrolet and Corvette are a vital part of the rich history of 'The Greatest Spectacle in Racing,' and we're honored to have a great champion of the race and of alternative fuels, Emerson Fittipaldi, as this year's pace car driver."

Corvette Z06 E85 concept
The Corvette Z06 E85 concept pace car is based on the production Z06 - already one of the fastest and most powerful cars on the market - and blends its performance with the high-octane, renewable alternative fuel that is derived from a variety of crops grown across the United States.

E85 is blend of 85 percent ethanol and 15 percent gasoline. Its benefits include reduced emissions of greenhouse gases and a reduced dependence on petroleum. GM is the leader in E85 production models, with more than 2.5 million E85-capable cars, trucks and SUVs on the road - with more on the way. Chevrolet offers seven E85-capable models in 2008.

Apart from the fuel system and powertrain controller revisions required to run E85, the Z06 concept pace car is mechanically stock. It is distinguished by a unique Gold Rush Green color-shifting paint scheme that changes between hues of green and gold when viewed from different angles and in different light. A subtle checkered flag pattern also is part of the paint scheme. Safety equipment and strobe lights are the only other equipment added to the car.

Emerson Fittipaldi: ambassador of racing and ethanol
After winning the Indianapolis 500 in 1989 and 1993 while driving for Chevrolet - and spending 30 years in his native Brazil as a refiner of ethanol - Emerson Fittipaldi is the perfect ambassador to lead the Indianapolis 500 in an E85-powered Corvette Z06.

"Most of the vehicles in Brazil are powered by ethanol produced from crops grown in the country, so I understand how a domestically produced renewable fuel can help the energy solutions of a nation," Fittipaldi said. "And the E85-powered Z06 concept pace car proves economic and environmental consciousness can be fun and exhilarating. I can't wait to get it on the racetrack."

Fittipaldi, whose personal cars include a Corvette Z06 and a Camaro awarded after winning the 1993 Indianapolis 500, resides in both Florida and Brazil. He has interests in several Brazilian ethanol companies and is an ardent champion of ethanol as a viable alternative to gasoline.

Brazil - the fifth-largest country in the world - is a global leader in ethanol usage in automobiles. Approximately 70 percent of Brazilian new cars are equipped with FlexFuel systems that allow the use of a gasoline/ethanol mix or pure ethanol. Ethanol production has grown tremendously during the last three decades and has allowed the country to practically wean itself completely from imported oil.

30th Anniversary commemorative edition
Commemorating one of the most recognizable Indianapolis 500 pace cars, the Corvette 30th Anniversary Pace Car features a black exterior with silver graphics that honors the 1978 model - the production replicas of which became instant collectibles and continue to stand as an iconic symbol of Corvette's heritage at the front of the Indy field.

In addition to the exterior color scheme, the anniversary models are equipped with a special, two-tone titanium-color interior, with the Indianapolis 500 logo embroidered on the seats. Coupe and convertible models are available. Each replica will be personally signed and numbered by Emerson Fittipaldi.

Both the coupe and convertible come equipped with Corvette's 3LT option package, Z51 performance package and dual-mode exhaust. Additional features include:

* Choice of six-speed manual or six-speed paddle-shift automatic transmissions
* LS3 small block V8 with 436 hp
* New-for-2008 forged chrome five-spoke aluminum wheels
* Corvette Z06 rear spoiler
* Silver checkered flag graphics
* Indy 500 logo fender badges

More information on pricing and availability will be announced a later date.

Corvette at Indy
The 2008 edition of the Indianapolis 500 represents Corvette's 10th time as the official pace car - and a record fifth-consecutive year - and Chevrolet's 19th time as the manufacturer selected to lead the field. Corvette's pace years and details include:

* 1978 - Driven by 1960 race winner Jim Rathmann; Chevrolet produced 6,502 production replicas
* 1986 - Driven by famed pilot Chuck Yeager; all 7,315 production convertibles were considered pace car convertibles and included official graphics (to be installed at the owner's discretion)
* 1995 - Driven by then Chevrolet General Manager Jim Perkins; 527 production replicas produced
* 1998 - Driven by 1963 race winner Parnelli Jones when an injury prevented golfer Greg Norman from performing the duty; 1,158 production replicas produced
* 2002 - Driven by actor Jim Caviezel; no production replicas produced but graphics were available through SPO - approximately 300 sets sold
* 2004 - Driven by actor Morgan Freeman; no production replicas produced
* 2005 - Driven by General Colin Powell; no production replicas produced
* 2006 - Driven by cycling champion Lance Armstrong; first Corvette Z06 pace car; no production replicas produced
* 2007 - Driven by actor Patrick Dempsey; 500 production replicas - all convertibles
* 2008 - Driven by Emerson Fittipaldi; 500 production replicas - coupes and convertibles

The Indianapolis 500 is the largest single-day spectator sporting event and the most prestigious auto race in the world. "The Greatest Spectacle in Racing" has been run every year since 1911 at the Indianapolis Motor Speedway, except for the periods during the United States' participation in world wars in 1917-18 and 1942-45. The winner of the 92nd Indianapolis 500 will earn racing immortality, a spot on the famed Borg-Warner Trophy and a record winner's purse of at least $2.5 million.

General Motors Corp. (NYSE: GM), the world's largest automaker, has been the annual global industry sales leader for 76 years. Founded in 1908, GM today employs about 280,000 people around the world. With global headquarters in Detroit, GM manufactures its cars and trucks in 33 countries. In 2006, nearly 9.1 million GM cars and trucks were sold globally under the following brands: Buick, Cadillac, Chevrolet, GMC, GM Daewoo, Holden, HUMMER, Opel, Pontiac, Saab, Saturn and Vauxhall. GM's OnStar subsidiary is the industry leader in vehicle safety, security and information services. More information on GM can be found at www.gm.com.

# # #

High Performance: Chevrolet Corvette - 50% Sedan: Honda Civic - 52% Coupe: Infiniti G37 Coupe - 52% Convertible: Mini Cooper Convertible - 50% Wagon: Scion xB- 52% Hatchback: Scion tC - 52% Luxury: BMW 6-Series - 50% Pickup: Toyota Tundra - 41% SUV: Acura MDX - 49% Minivan: Honda Odyssey - 39% Hybrid: Honda Civic Hybrid - 45%

[KBB via CNN Money]

(Merced, CA) - Corvette has remained an icon after 54 years. Uniquely American, it's a symbol of independence, exuberance and driving pleasure. The Corvette Limited Edition Sport-V symbolizes all of these things and bares more than a resemblance to its legendary landlocked brother. It displays strikingly precise styling cues. From the signature Corvette "Cove" tooled into the hull to the authentic Corvette emblems to the power wing windshield to the rear taillight design used for through-hull ventilation down to the authentic Corvette rims on the custom Corvette trailer.

The Cove. No longer just a place on the lake where you hang out in your boat, the Corvette "Cove" is the at-a-glance characteristic that makes the Corvette Limited Edition Sport-V unmistakable. Taken from the C6 design, the cove is uniquely Corvette whether showcased on land or water.

Windows that roll. Malibu engineers paid homage to the thrill of the open road by incorporating windows that roll down into the power wing windshield.

What's under the hood? The Corvette-styled closed bow becomes impressively functional as the bow hood opens to reveal LED lighting, a dual subwoofer high powered stereo system and specific storage centers.

Corvette, even on the inside. The moment you take your place in the authentic Corvette driver's seat, you will be at command central of the Corvette Limited Edition Sport-V .Everything is at your fingertips, from the keyless start with security code activation to the Malibu in-dash LCD and two banks of multiplexed switches with built-in LCD screens. The servo-driven Medallion gauges peek out from the low-brow dash and can be dimmed to three different brightness settings. The feeling of fingertip control is as immediate as you put your hands on the sure-grip performance steering wheel.

Whether you are in the authentic Corvette driver's seat, the passenger's seat or the console-split rear lounge, you will feel the comfort of the plush, 38-ounce Duraguard vinyl seamed with French stitching. Anodized aluminum cup holders, carbon fiber accents, theater-style LED interior lighting are standards that enhance the luxury of this extraordinary boat. The 8-speaker Malibu-Rockford Fosgate Stereo System enables you to create the ultimate, heart pounding, Corvette experience.

Same heart, same soul. To maintain the legendary Corvette performance and renowned speed the Corvette Limited Edition Sport-V is available in both Z06 and Coupe packages. The Z06 delivers the same power as the car with 505 horse power and 470 lb.-ft. of torque from the exclusive LS7 Corvette engine. The powerful 400 horsepower Hammerhead 383 engine makes its home in the Coupe.

Malibu engineers understand that the heart and soul of any Corvette, land or water, is the engine. With a nod to its importance, they have incorporated a clear, Lexan door designed to showcase the LS7 engine, visible when you open the Corvette Z06 boat's rear storage hatches. Twenty-four bright red LEDs showcase this powerful performer.

What does GM say? When asked about the new Corvette boat from Malibu Gene Reamer, Director of Trademark and licensing for General Motors, had this to say. "Once again Malibu Boats did an excellent job capturing Corvette styling cues and introducing innovative features, which is consistent with Corvette the sports car." A big smile came over his face and he added, ".they made this boat go really fast, too!"

Complete with custom trailer. No Corvette boat would be complete without a perfectly matched trailer. Malibu engineers have designed this exclusive tandem axel trailer to incorporate all the special details that say Corvette including official Corvette or Z06 wheels, depending on the model. The trailer is just another flawless rendition of Corvette design elements that shows off this very special boat as only Malibu could.

The Corvette Limited Edition Sport-V Boat's unmatched style, unbridled power, precise technology, global awareness and aggressive modern muscle will certainly make its owners proud and continue its legendary status on the water. The Corvette Limited Edition Sport-V will be sold in limited production through authorized, participating Malibu Boats dealerships throughout North America.

Coupe Features
Coved Corvette Styled Hull
383 Hammerhead Engine (400hp)
Corvette High-back Seats
Corvette Styled Hood
Corvette Styled Rear Vents (through-hull ventilation) Stainless Steel Corvette-style Exhaust Tips Multiplexed Switches 8-Speaker Malibu-Rockford Fosgate Stereo System Keyless Ignition (coded) Shift-by-wire Throttle System Stainless Steel Underwater Gear Custom Corvette Flag Embroidered Cover Depth Finder
(2) Seat Heaters
3-Outlet Heater
LED Interior Lighting
LED Underwater Lights
Power Wing Windshield
Dual Fuel Fills
Corvette Flag Emblems
Corvette Signature Emblems
Corvette Trailer w/Corvette Wheels

Z06 Features
LS7 Engine (505hp)
Z06 Emblems
Z06 Trailer w/Z06 Wheels
Two-tone Dash
Two-tone Interior
Clear Lexan Engine Hatch Lit by 24 Red LEDs

Options
Illusion XS Wakeboard Tower
Pull Up Cleats
Patented Power Wedge

Available Gelcoat Colors
Black, Arctic White, Velocity Yellow, Victory Red, Stratosphere Blue Metallic, Machine Silver Metallic, Atomic Orange Metallic

Available Vinyl Colors
Titanium Gray, Red, Cashmere, Linen or Black. Black accent available on the Z06 only.

Specifications
Length: 20' 6"
Beam: 93.5"
Draft: 22"
Capacity: 8 people
Weight: 3000 lbs.
Fuel Capacity: 37 gallons
[4wheelsblog via AutoBlog]

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There's a Talmud passage that deals with what you should do if both of your parents ask you for a glass of water at the same time. One Rabbi says that you give the water first to your father and then your mother, explaining that within the confines of marriage, the man is the head of the household. "But," another Rabbi asks, "What if the parents are divorced?" The first Rabbi says that you place the glass in the middle of the floor and whichever parent gets to it first gets the water. In other words, I ain't touching this one. Or put another way, who's your daddy?

GREEN AND MEAN: JAY LENO'S E85-CAPABLE Z06-INSPIRED C6RS CORVETTE BOASTS 600 HP AND ALTERNATIVE-FUEL CAPABILITY

LAS VEGAS - "Tonight Show" host Jay Leno's predilection for performance cars is no secret, but many fellow enthusiasts may not know that he is keenly interested in alternative fuels. To prove that red-blooded power mixes easily with a touch of green, Leno partnered with Pratt & Miller - the engineering company that builds and campaigns C6.R Corvettes - to develop a modified Corvette Z06 that is capable of running on E85 ethanol. It was unveiled at the 2007 SEMA Show.

More than merely a conversion of the stock LS7 engine to E85 capability, Leno's alternative-fuel supercar is powered by a custom, 8.2L (500-cubic-inch) all-aluminum small-block V-8 that pumps out approximately 600 horsepower and 585 lb.-ft. of torque.

"The C6RS is the result of an idea we hatched to prove that high-performance cars and alternative fuel technology weren't diametrically opposed concepts," said Leno. "I love the idea of having 600 horsepower at my disposal, but using a homegrown alternative to gasoline."

The engine is built around a custom aluminum cylinder block that was CNC-milled from a single block of billet aluminum. And while the cylinder heads, intake system and dry-sump oiling system are stock LS7 components, the engine - which has larger bore and stroke dimensions than the 7.0L (427-cubic-inch) LS7 - uses a one-off reciprocating assembly, including a forged steel crankshaft, forged rods and forged pistons. Katech Engines, the company that builds engines for the Corvette C6.R racing program, developed the engine.

The fuel system and engine control computer were modified to accommodate E85, and spent gases exit through a Corsa exhaust system. Supporting the 600-horse engine's power is a blueprinted and strengthened T-56 six-speed transmission and a high-performance Centerforce dual-friction clutch.

C6.R inspiration
On the outside, Leno's bad and black C6RS emulates the styling of C6.R racecars, with wider front and rear fenders and a wider rear fascia with an integrated spoiler on top and a racing-style diffuser at the bottom (the diffuser incorporates an LED-lit backup lamp). A C6.R-style waterfall hood front fender louvers, rockers and lower grille opening further define this special Corvette - and all of the car's front-end panels are made of carbon-fiber, including custom brake air ducts routed through the front fenders. With all of its body modifications, Leno's C6RS is 1.6 inches wider than stock.

The C6.R's - and production Corvette's - aerodynamically styled bodywork is designed to slice efficiently through the wind, which helps enhance fuel mileage.

The race-ready look of the car is enhanced with a quartet of BBS wheels that feature racing-type locking center hubs. The forged aluminum 18-inch front wheels and 19-inch rear wheels ride on Michelin P295/30ZR18 and P345/30ZR19 tires, respectively.

Adding authenticity to the car's custom bodywork was the involvement of Pratt & Miller. The company took on the task of crafting Leno's Corvette into a street-going replica of the racecars, which included installing or fabricating a host of unique components, including:
• A custom DeWitt high-capacity radiator with dual cooling fans
• A carbon-fiber ram-air induction system
• Carbon-fiber inner fender panels that vent hot air from the engine compartment
• Brembo brakes with six-piston mono-block calipers in front and four-piston rear calipers
• Dyna-Mat used throughout the cabin and chassis to reduce interior noise

While the exterior and drivetrain were inspired by the racetrack, the C6RS's cabin exudes luxury, with premium touches and enhancements from Genuine Corvette Accessories that include a two-tone shift knob and boot; leather-covered console armrest, parking brake handle and boot; an interior trim kit, racing-style pedal covers and more.

With its 600 horses on tap and domestically produced E85 fuel in the tank, Jay Leno's alternative-fueled C6RS is an all-American supercar that proves high performance and environmental consciousness go together like the Corvette and checkered flags.

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