2007 Chevrolet Corvette Z06: The Ultimate Performance Bargain

The Corvette Z06 is undeniably one of the most thrilling sports cars you will ever have the pleasure of driving.

As part of Musto’s Must Owns, an AutoDrive feature, I’m excited to share my insights on some exceptional used vehicles available in AutoNation’s inventory. These aren’t just standard car reviews; they are based on extensive personal experience.

My top recommendation? The 2006-2013 Chevrolet Corvette C6 Z06. My history with this car is deep: I tracked a Z06 regularly in 2009, embarked on a cross-country road trip in one in 2010, and have since accumulated around 8,000 miles in various C6 Corvettes. This generation Z06 marked a turning point, capturing the attention of serious performance enthusiasts and prompting brands like Porsche, BMW, Audi, and Ferrari to recognize Chevrolet’s capabilities.

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2007 Chevrolet Corvette Z06 Visceral Sports Car

Unleashing Raw Power: The LS7 Engine and Performance Specs

The heart of the 2007 Chevrolet Corvette Z06 is its naturally aspirated 7.0-liter 427 cubic-inch aluminum small block engine, featuring a dry-sump oiling system. This powerhouse churns out an impressive 505 horsepower and 470 lb-ft of torque. The result is breathtaking performance: 0 to 60 mph in a mere 3.5 seconds, a quarter-mile sprint in 11.5 seconds, and a top speed reaching an astounding 196 mph. It’s crucial to remember these figures are from a vehicle designed over a decade ago, highlighting its enduring performance prowess.

To manage this immense power, the Z06 is equipped with substantial tires on staggered wheels. The front boasts 275/35/18 tires, while the rear muscles up with 325/30/19s. These robust tires contribute to the Z06’s stance, making it 3.3 inches wider than the standard C6 Corvette coupe. Braking is equally formidable, with large six-piston Brembo front calipers clamping down on 14-inch rotors, and the rear featuring 13.4-inch rotors with four-piston calipers, ensuring confident stopping power.

Consider this: a 2007 Corvette Z06, much like the model featured here, outpaces and outpowers contemporary sports cars such as the 2020 Toyota Supra, the 2019 BMW M4, and even the 2020 Porsche 911 Carrera in certain performance metrics.

2007 Corvette Z06 Wider Body Fat Rubber Tires

Daily Drivability and Timeless Appeal

While the 2007 Corvette Z06 might not boast the cutting-edge technology and interior refinement of today’s sports cars, remember it was engineered over fifteen years ago. However, this doesn’t compromise its comfort or suitability as a daily driver.

The heated, leather-clad bucket seats are exceptionally comfortable, complemented by dual-zone climate control and a superb heads-up display. By today’s standards, it remains remarkably modern, perhaps only showing its age with a somewhat complex LCD dash, a stark contrast to the overwhelming electronics prevalent in many new vehicles. The Z06 compensates with exceptional value, bulletproof reliability, practicality for daily use—offering a generous 22.4 cubic feet of cargo space—surprisingly good highway fuel economy at 26 mpg, and an unparalleled fun-to-drive factor.

2007 Chevy Corvette Z06 Six-Speed Manual Transmission

The Pure Driving Experience of the C6 Z06

Driving the C6 Z06 evokes a classic sports car feel, which is undoubtedly a positive attribute. While equipped with anti-lock brakes, traction control, and stability control, at its core, the Z06 is a raw, powerful machine. The naturally aspirated LS7 engine is widely regarded as one of GM’s greatest achievements. This massive engine revs to 7,000 rpm, enhanced by an active exhaust system, and the symphony it produces as you engage all six manual gears is simply intoxicating.

On the road, the Z06 delivers a firm yet compliant ride. It corners with remarkable flatness when pushed, and skilled drivers can expertly manage the rear end using the throttle. This isn’t a car for novices to take lightly, but neither should it be intimidating. Instead, the 2007 Corvette Z06 is a true driver’s car, allowing enthusiasts to revel in the joy of driving without excessive electronic interventions. These cars are incredibly enjoyable for both everyday driving and spirited runs, and anyone who suggests otherwise likely hasn’t experienced one firsthand. Regardless of price point, the Corvette Z06 stands as one of the most genuinely visceral sports cars available.

2007 Corvette Z06 LS7 Engine Naturally Aspirated

2007 Chevrolet Corvette Z06 Value Reliability Daily Driver Fun