The 2001 Corvette Z06 stands as a testament to American performance engineering, and it continues to be a highly sought-after vehicle for enthusiasts. Even in its stock form, the C5 Z06 delivers impressive power and handling, but its true potential is unleashed when modifications are introduced. David Franza’s Z06, previously featured in Super Chevy, perfectly illustrates this potential, showcasing just how much performance can be extracted from this iconic model with careful upgrades.
A Personal Tribute Woven into Performance
However, Franza’s 2001 Corvette Z06 is more than just a high-performance machine; it carries a deeply personal meaning. The number “528” emblazoned on the rear quarter panels is a poignant tribute to his mother, commemorating the day and month of her passing in 2016.
This Corvette became Franza’s way of navigating through grief and loss. A lifelong dream since childhood was to own a C5 Corvette, and the pursuit of this dream began shortly after his mother’s passing, turning a personal aspiration into a meaningful project.
The Quest for the Perfect 2001 Corvette
Franza’s search for the ideal C5 Corvette spanned several months before he finally located a promising 2001 model in late 2016. Despite the car being a few hours away, and a sudden snowstorm hitting on the day of pickup, Franza’s determination prevailed. He drove through the adverse conditions, successfully bringing his new Corvette Z06 home, a testament to his commitment.
From Stock to Supercharged: The Modification Journey Begins
Initially, Franza intended to keep his 2001 Corvette Z06 in its original factory condition. However, the allure of performance upgrades proved too strong to resist. An attractive offer on performance parts ignited a modification spree. This initial package was substantial, including rebuilt cylinder heads, a performance camshaft, a Vortech V2 supercharger, and a Lingenfelter fuel system upgrade complete with enhanced injectors and fuel pump.
Pushing Limits and Upgrading Components
The upgraded components immediately demonstrated their impact on the dyno, producing an impressive 713 horsepower and 637 lb-ft of torque at 12.5 pounds of boost. However, the stock clutch reached its limit before the full potential of this setup could be measured. Undeterred, Franza addressed this limitation by installing a robust McLeod RXT clutch, capable of handling the increased power.
The modifications continued in a natural progression to enhance all aspects of the car’s performance. Axles were upgraded to handle the added power, and the stance and grip were improved with 18-inch Rotiform KPS wheels. These were paired with 255/55R18 Achilles ATR Sport tires at the front and wider 335/30R18 Hoosier R7s at the rear, optimizing both street and track performance.
To accommodate the significantly wider rear tires, Lewis Five Motorsports widebody fenders were installed, dramatically altering the Corvette’s appearance. A carbon fiber hood was added, further enhancing the aggressive styling and reducing weight. To complete the visual transformation, the car was wrapped in gloss black, with custom graphics applied by A-Plus Auto Styling in Forest Hill, Maryland, giving it a sinister and personalized aesthetic.
Interior and Suspension Enhancements
The interior of this 2001 Corvette Z06 received attention as well, aimed at creating a more track-focused environment. Corbeau Evolution X seats and RJS harnesses, secured by a Brey-Krause harness bar, were installed for enhanced driver support and safety. An OMP black suede steering wheel further contributes to the sporty feel. To sharpen handling, RS series coilovers were fitted, refining the suspension dynamics.
Still Relevant: Nearly 800 Horsepower at the Wheels
After all the meticulous modifications, Franza’s 2001 Corvette Z06 delivered on its promise. A subsequent dyno test revealed an impressive output of nearly 800 horsepower at the wheels. This figure not only showcases the effectiveness of the upgrades but also underscores the enduring relevance and tuning potential of the C5 Corvette platform, even with newer Corvette generations like the C8 now available. This 2001 Corvette Z06 proves that the C5 remains a formidable platform for performance enthusiasts.
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