Outlandish performance thresholds define the C6 Corvette, especially when the Z51 performance-handling package is selected.
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| Outlandish performance thresholds define the C6 Corvette, especially when the Z51 performance-handling package is selected. (Photo: Rob Rothwell, Canadian Auto Press) |
With its stiffer spring rates, revised axle ratio (with automatic transmission), power steering cooler, engine and transmission oil coolers and larger brakes, the Z51 Vette slices through corners, curves and bends with deft precision and razor sharpness. Body roll is essentially non-existent and grip is absolutely stunning. Placing the raging shark into its Competitive Driving mode, which deactivates the traction control and stability programs, allows one to easily float its light tail outside the line during on-track cornering. Splendid control is easily maintained throughout, using throttle modulation and slight steering inputs which are reacted to with feline-like immediacy. Even with the two
safety programs functioning, which is recommended unless on a closed track, the Corvette allows a significant margin of driver
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| Experiencing the Z51's handling is exhilarating, but given my choice, I would forgo a smidgen of its pavement searing tenacity for the saner ride. (Photo: Rob Rothwell, Canadian Auto Press) |
control before stepping in and overriding excessive enthusiasm.As you may have guessed, handling prowess comes with a cost beyond financial. The Z51 package can be hard on the bones of those whose idea of a "day at the track" involves wagering cold hard cash on equine creatures galloping around a dirt oval. Experiencing the Z51's handling is exhilarating, but given my choice, I would forgo a smidgen of its pavement searing tenacity for the saner ride of the standard suspension setup. Better yet maybe the optional Magnetic Selective Ride Control, which allows the driver to select Touring or Sport suspension modes, in addition to automatically adjusting the firmness depending on driving demands and road surface.
