Since the C7 Corvette, Chevy has “co-developed” both the street- and race versions of the Corvette. Chevy says, “They’re the closest link in modern times between Corvettes built for racing and the road, sharing unprecedented levels of engineering and components including chassis architecture, engine technologies, and aerodynamic strategies.” This becomes evident when you know that the flat-plane crank 5.5-liter V8 in both the Corvette racecar and the upcoming 2022 Z06 street version is the same. It will debut in 2021. It is expected to spec out to over 600 naturally aspirated horsepower. So the Z06 is the closest thing to a street-legal racecar you can own today.

The Z06 and race version C8.R share the same flat-plane crank V8

The Z06 flat-plane crank V8 will be identical whether in the C8.R racecar or production Z06 version. That’s crazy. It is rumored to have a red line of 9,000 rpm. This is a screamer with a flat-plane crank thump. It should sound and run wicked. And it won’t sound like anything that ever came from Chevrolet. 

Unfortunately, there will be no manual transmission but instead the eight-speed dual-clutch automatic will be the only transmission available with the C8 Z06 option. Remember, this is a track-focused car so the better numbers are with both hands on the wheel.

You’ll know when you’re seeing a Z06 from the aggressive body enhancements

Outside, more aggressive styling includes flared fenders, larger air scoops, and big wings aplenty will identify the Z06. The wings actively adjust trading for either downforce or cornering enhancement. Wider and gripping tires and better brakes from the standard Corvette will make this a hard cornering track performer. You know that the suspension will receive a special tune. 

Inside the new C8 Corvette never ceases to entertain-at least as it’s so new. From the driver’s seat, you almost feel like you’re in a single-seat racecar of the future. A 12-inch digital gauge cluster shares data with the head-up display. There’s also wireless charging in case you’re connected to your tuner or engine builder 1,200 miles away.

The two- and three-tone interiors are too circus-y

There will also be additional carbon-fiber bits which will date the C8 someday. And, we could do without the circus-y two- and three-tone styling elements. It’s like wearing plaid and stripes together. Too much and unnecessary.  

An 8-inch touchscreen featuring Infotainment 3 Plus specs is enhanced with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. It will also feature a performance data recorder to let you see how you’re coming into corners too hot and braking too much. Isn’t it always that way? You should be taking driving lessons if you can afford to pop for the $85 Gs. 

If the C7 Z06 specs are anywhere near what the C8 Z06 will be this should be a screamer

Since we don’t have the specs for this latest 2022 Z06 we can show you the C7 numbers and give you a rough idea of what this new one will be capable of. The last C7 Z06 was powered by a supercharged 6.2-liter V8 developing 650 hp and an identical 650 lb-ft of torque. The 0-60 times were 2.95 seconds with the eight-speed automatic and the Z07 performance package. 

The price is estimated to be $85,000. That’s still cheaper than a Ferrari.