Corvette fanatics, brace yourselves and your drivers abstract. GM has recently announced that a supercharged LS9 smallblock powerplant will find its way under the hood of the extreme performance 2009 ZR1 model. Engineers are targeting the 100 horspower-per-litre benchmark for the new engine, which is based on the new 6.2 litre V8 currently found in the standard Corvette. If the guys in the white coats meet their goal, expect horsepower figures upwards of 620- though you'll have to wait untill March for the official number.
"When you experience the LS9 in the Corvette ZR1, the terms performance and refinement take on a new meaning," said Tom Stephens, group vice president for GM Powertrain and Quality. "The LS9 demonstrates an outstanding performance range, with smooth driveability at low speeds, and surprisingly fierce performance when the customer wants more power."A Roots-type Eaton blower is partially responsible for the crushing performance- and utilizes an integral charge-cooler for maximum power. Numerous upgrades have been carried out to handle the extra stress and heat generated within the new engine. GM says they have plans to fit supercharged smallblocks to other vehicles in the near future as well.
photo: General Motors