The fastest and most expensive Chevrolet automobile to its time, this 2019 Corvette ZR1 Convertible is the towering explanation point drawing to a dramatic close the front-engined Corvette’s 66-year history. Driven just 645 miles, this is the Corvette described by its creator, Corvette Chief Engineer Tadge Juechter, as “the most we know how to do” with a front-engine/rear drive layout, though the limits reached by the Corvette team still made the ZR1 the bane of exotics costing five times as much and more. Unlike its ‘90s predecessor, the 2019 edition employs pushrod architecture in the highly developed LT5 6.2L/755 HP V-8. The LT5’s Eaton supercharger is larger than that of the Z06, its 2.9-inch extra height requiring the bulging raw carbon fiber intercooler cover that rises to fill the car’s gaping hood opening. Once fired, the LT5 bellows through a multimode performance exhaust system while powering an 8-speed automatic transmission and electronic, limited-slip differential on the way to the convertible’s 200-plus MPH top speed. Terminal roadholding is controlled by specially calibrated performance suspension, Magnetic Ride Control, ZR1 Carbon flash aluminum alloy wheels wrapped in Michelin Pilot Sport Cup 2 rubber, and massive carbon-ceramic disc brakes, but airflow management also plays a significant role. The front bodywork is exclusive to the ZR1, most notably the four extra heat exchangers and a new radiator and intercooler behind each outboard nostril. Out back, the ZTK option package adds this example’s no-nonsense high rear wing, which generates up to 950 pounds of downforce and required special high-strength mounts to transfer loads to the rear bumper beam. With all that technology and power on display, it’s only fitting that this subject was finished with the gloriously showy Sebring Orange Design Package headlined by brilliant Sebring Orange tint coat paint, carbon flash exterior trim an carbon fiber targa top, further including matching Sebring Orange brake calipers, rocker and splitter accent stripes, seatbelts and interior stitching, as well as exclusive bronze aluminum interior trim. Track ready as it is, the ZR1 also provides a true grand-touring experience for more casual pacing. Supplementing the black leather interior’s Competition Sport heated and cooled bucket seats, dual-zone climate control, full power accessories, color head-up display and a full infotainment system, this ZR1’s optional 3ZR Premium Equipment Group adds extra leather upholstery, suede microfiber upper trim, gloss carbon fiber inlays, a carbon fiber and sueded microfiber steering wheel, carbon-fiber instrument panel, powered and heated outside mirrors, a Bose premium audio system, SiriusXM satellite radio capability, Apple CarPlay, a performance data recorder, front curb-view cameras and remote vehicle start. For the front- engine Corvette faithful, there is no better way to celebrate its final chapter than this all-in ZR1 convertible.
