2009 Chevrolet Corvette ZR1: Road Test
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Our road test for the 2009 Chevrolet Corvette ZR1 includes a full evaluation of the 2009 Chevrolet Corvette ZR1 from the inside out. We evaluate not only engine and handling performance for the 2009 Chevrolet Corvette ZR1, but also interior cabin and cargo space. Let our comprehensive road test ratings for the 2009 Chevrolet Corvette ZR1 help you decide if a 2009 Chevrolet Corvette ZR1 is right for you.
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ACCELERATION
| ZR1 | Class Average |
|---|---|
| 10 | 7 |
One of the fastest cars in the world. Explosive power is on tap both from a stop and at any speed. Chevy pegs the ZR1 at 3.4 seconds 0-60 mph, and it feels every bit that fast. Despite having 638 hp, this 'Vette is surprisingly easy to drive, with a low-effort shifter and smooth clutch.
FUEL ECONOMY
| ZR1 | Class Average |
|---|---|
| 2 | 3.7 |
No opportunity to measure. ZR1 requires premium-grade gas and is subject to a federal gas-guzzler tax.
RIDE QUALITY
| ZR1 | Class Average |
|---|---|
| 3 | 3.7 |
No luxury sedan, but the ZR1's ride control is quite good for a vehicle that emphasizes acceleration and handling. One of Chevy's goals in designing this super Corvette was to make it livable as a daily driver. By and large, the company's efforts were successful. It still bangs and crashes over large pavement breaks, but it absorbs bumps as well as can be expected.
STEERING/HANDLING/BRAKING
| ZR1 | Class Average |
|---|---|
| 10 | 7.2 |
If Consumer Guide's scale went to 11 in this category, ZR1 would easily earn that score. Steering feel is quick and communicative. The words "body lean" mean nothing to this car. Its grip and balance put it in a class with some of the world's foremost exotic nameplates. ZR1's brakes, which have a rotor diameter larger than that of some cars' wheels, deliver short, controlled stops with outstanding pedal feel.
QUIETNESS
| ZR1 | Class Average |
|---|---|
| 2 | 3.6 |
It's loud, but almost gloriously so. At idle, the engine sounds little different than other Corvette models. As it spools up, it produces a distinct tone: muscle-car roar combined with a bit of supercharger whine. Road and tire noise are plentiful, and the latter is especially tiring at highway speeds.
CONTROLS
| ZR1 | Class Average |
|---|---|
| 6 | 4.8 |
Almost no different from standard Corvette fare. Clear gauges complement mostly handy controls. The heads-up display shows vehicle and engine speeds. It can also be configured to show handling information, including lateral acceleration. The display can also be switched off, but it's generally useful, if for no other reason than to make sure you're obeying speed laws.
DETAILS
| ZR1 | Class Average |
|---|---|
| 6 | 6.1 |
This is where ZR1 is slightly disappointing. Aside from a few trim bits, there's not much here to distinguish this six-figure-sticker Corvette from its "lesser" brethren. That said, the interior is nicely finished overall, with a mix of grained plastic and textured leather.
ROOM/COMFORT/DRIVER SEATING (FRONT)
| ZR1 | Class Average |
|---|---|
| 5 | 5 |
Comfortable seats provide adult-adequate headroom and legroom. A decently wide cockpit provides a comfortable place for those of wider girth to conduct the business of driving. ZR1 continues in the Corvette tradition of offering a manual tilt/power telescopic steering wheel. It works OK, but power operation for both functions would be welcome. Entry and exit are drop in/climb out, and ZR1's long doors don't make these tasks any easier. The design of the rear window produces annoying distortions, which hurt visibility.
ROOM/COMFORT (REAR)
| ZR1 | Class Average |
|---|---|
| 0 | .7 |
(No rear seating.)
CARGO ROOM
| ZR1 | Class Average |
|---|---|
| 4 | 2.2 |
Like other Corvette coupe models, cargo space is good. Liftover is high, but two golf bags and some soft luggage should have no trouble fitting in the ZR1's trunk. Note that there's no partition between the cargo and seating areas, so pack carefully. In-cabin storage is minimal and limited to a small, shallow center console and glovebox.
VALUE WITHIN CLASS
| ZR1 | Class Average |
|---|---|
| 7 | 4.6 |
Base and Z06 Corvette models are plenty fast in their own right. That begs the question: Did Chevrolet need to make its iconic sports car any faster? The answer is well...yeah. ZR1 is a model of engineering prowess that's surprisingly docile as a daily driver. Six figures is a lot to ask for a Corvette, but this amazingly capable coupe is almost a bargain in the grand scheme of ultra-high-performance automobiles.
Total Score
| ZR1 | Class Average |
|---|---|
| 55 | 48.6 |
Total Score: 55
Scores for all Premium Sporty/performance Cars
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