Of course the entire setup is tweaked to the Z06's FE4 high-performance specifications that include a larger front stabilizer bar cast in aluminum for reduced weight, a stiffer rear leaf spring and specific camber settings. For 2002 the Z06 also receives new rear shock valving for more predictable handling. What's more, Corvette's second-generation Active Handling system is standard equipment. The system uses dynamic rear brake proportioning to prevent rear wheel lockup, and rear brake stability control to help maintain composure when braking lightly or accelerating quickly. But that's not all. The Z06 features integral traction control keeping wheel-spin to a minimum. An on/off switch and 'Competitive Mode' lets you turn off the traction control while continuing to take advantage of active handling benefits. All the fun without all the risk - sounds like a commercial for condoms.
While they look the same the Z06's distinct 17 x 9.5-inch front and 18 x 10.5-inch rear aluminum wheels are now produced using a cast rather than a forged process. They're clad with grippy P265/40ZR17 front and P295/35ZR18 rear tires. The cars 1,415 kg (3,119 lb) curb weight, 44 kg (97 lb) lower than a standard Corvette coupe, help to keep the center of gravity lower and therefore, lateral movement to a minimum.
Like the suspension, the LS6 engine isn't a radical departure from the already impressive LS1. Its 55-hp gain isn't derived from increased displacement either. Actually both engines spec sheets look nearly identical when placed side by side. A simple overhead-valve, pushrod architecture incorporates a 90-degree V angle set in a cast aluminum block with cast aluminum heads overtop. Bore and stroke are both 99.0 by 92.0 mm (3.90 x 3.62 in) while displacement is exactly 5,665 cc (346 cu in), 5.7-L when rounded off. Both feed premium unleaded through their sequential-port fuel injection systems and achieve LEV (low emission vehicle) status. The only immediately visible difference is in compression ratios, with the LS1 at 10.1:1 and the LS6 at 10.5:1.
While they look the same the Z06's distinct 17 x 9.5-inch front and 18 x 10.5-inch rear aluminum wheels are now produced using a cast rather than a forged process. They're clad with grippy P265/40ZR17 front and P295/35ZR18 rear tires. The cars 1,415 kg (3,119 lb) curb weight, 44 kg (97 lb) lower than a standard Corvette coupe, help to keep the center of gravity lower and therefore, lateral movement to a minimum.
Like the suspension, the LS6 engine isn't a radical departure from the already impressive LS1. Its 55-hp gain isn't derived from increased displacement either. Actually both engines spec sheets look nearly identical when placed side by side. A simple overhead-valve, pushrod architecture incorporates a 90-degree V angle set in a cast aluminum block with cast aluminum heads overtop. Bore and stroke are both 99.0 by 92.0 mm (3.90 x 3.62 in) while displacement is exactly 5,665 cc (346 cu in), 5.7-L when rounded off. Both feed premium unleaded through their sequential-port fuel injection systems and achieve LEV (low emission vehicle) status. The only immediately visible difference is in compression ratios, with the LS1 at 10.1:1 and the LS6 at 10.5:1.