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The Internet is awash with fans and critics asking, “Why isn’t the Chevy Corvette Z06 supercharged?” Well, take a listen to the new plastic fantastic and remove all doubt. The upcoming C8 Corvette Z06 isn’t just naturally aspirated; it’s a Ferrari alternative with an American performance pedigree. 

Does the Z06 come supercharged?

Unlike track-attacking Z06s of past generations like the C6 and C7, the C8 Z06 will not pack a supercharger. I’ll wait while most of you moan and groan. The lack of forced induction is a blessing for the upcoming Corvette. Take one listen to the C8 Z06, and you’ll know that there is finally, and without jest, an American Ferrari.

Specifically, the C8 Chevy Corvette Z06 packs a naturally aspirated, flat-plane crank, 5.5L V8. There’s one statement in there that should pique your interest: “flat-plane.” The flat-plane crankshaft application in the new Corvette supercar allows it to rev up to over 8,000 RPM, and makes its peak horsepower at a stratospheric 8,400. 

How much power does the C8 Corvette Z06 produce?

The 2023 C8 Chevy Corvette Z06 produces 670 horsepower from its 32-valve naturally aspirated V8 mill. Furthermore, Chevrolet asserts that the Z06’s powerplant is the “most powerful naturally-aspirated V8 in production.” That’s an exciting prospect in the face of industry-wide electrification and hybridization

However, the C8 Z06 doesn’t need Chevy’s press team to sing its praises; it sings by itself. The Z06’s redline and soundtrack are a clear alternative to a Ferrari tenor. Of course, most fans will want to know how swift the Z06 is over how it sounds. Car and Driver tested the beast, and it returned a 0 to 60 mph time of just 2.6 seconds with a quarter-mile covered in just 10.5 seconds. 

How much will the C8 Chevy Corvette Z06 cost?

An orange 2023 Chevy Corvette Z06 drives on a track.
2023 Chevy Corvette Z06 | General Motors

The price tag is even more exciting than the soundtrack and horsepower figures of the new Z06. The 2023 Chevrolet Corvette Z06 starts at $109,295. That means this Z06 will be the most expensive iteration by a monstrous margin. While that seems steep, the ridiculous Kentucky supercar is a bargain compared to the competition. 

To give you an idea of just how fast Bowling Green’s latest weapon is, let’s compare it to the savage Lamborghini Huracán STO. That raging bull matches the Corvette’s 0 to 60 time with its 2.6-second sprint. However, the brightly-colored Lambo costs three times as much as the Chevy supercar. You read that right; the Huracán demands over $300,000. 

Should you consider the Chevy Corvette Z06?

An orange 2023 Chevy Corvette Z06 C8 attacks a corner on the track.
2023 Chevy Corvette Z06 | General Motors

If you want the last word in performance that costs less than an average living space, consider the C8 Chevy Corvette Z06. It might not have the looks of a meticulously sculpted Ferrari or Lamborghini, but it has promising points to make. Frankly, it will make its points with a silky high-revving voice unlike any other American car before. 

If you want a Ferrari, buy a Ferrari. However, if you want one of the finest American cars ever made, buy the Corvette. Keep up with MotorBiscuit to read more about supercars!

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