The 2023 Chevrolet Corvette Z06 Z07 is making waves in the automotive world, and for good reason. It’s a machine engineered for exhilarating performance, blending track-ready capabilities with surprising on-road civility. Recently, CorvetteForum member Stephen McCarthy, VIN 00052 owner, shared his initial driving experiences after taking delivery of his stunning Red Mist Metallic Corvette Z06 Z07. His insights provide a valuable real-world perspective on what it’s like to live with and drive this high-performance marvel. After breaking in his new ride, McCarthy’s review highlights why the Corvette Z07 is being hailed as a truly exceptional sports car.
Steve McCarthy C8 Z06 Z07
McCarthy’s journey with his Corvette Z06 Z07 began in November, but with Nevada’s temperatures dropping, he wisely opted for Michelin Pilot Sport 4S ZP tires, acknowledging the track-focused Cup 2 tires’ limitations in colder conditions. He diligently completed the 500-mile break-in period in just three days and then provided his initial thoughts on the CorvetteForum. Following this, after a track alignment and carbon brake burnishing, McCarthy offered a more in-depth second impression. His detailed feedback is incredibly insightful for anyone considering the Corvette Z07, and we’re thrilled to share a condensed and reformatted version of his review here.
The Z07 Spec Highlights
C8 Z06 Z07
McCarthy’s Corvette Z07 boasts an impressive specification, perfectly tailored for both performance and style:
- Model: 2023 Corvette Z06/Z07 Convertible Hard Top
- Trim: 3LZ
- Exterior Color: Red Mist Metallic
- Performance Features: Front lift, Edge Red calipers, Carbon Flash painted aero and ground effects
- Interior: Red/black interior
Engine and Transmission: A Symphony of Power and Precision
Z06 Z07 rear end
For McCarthy, the heart and soul of the Corvette Z07 lie in its engine and transmission. He describes them as “absolutely extraordinary,” struggling to choose which he favors more. The Z07’s engine is undeniably loud, a characteristic that might even be too intense for tracks with strict noise limits, as he experienced with his previous C6 Z06.
The versatility of driving modes is a standout feature. In “Tour” mode, the Corvette Z07 transforms into a surprisingly docile street car. McCarthy configures this mode for minimum sound, light steering and braking, and early gear shifts, making it ideal for relaxed daily driving. Conversely, “Race 2” mode unleashes the car’s full potential. McCarthy aptly describes it as “violent and pissed off,” perfectly suited for track use but overwhelming for regular street driving. He emphasizes that Race 2 is truly track-focused and can be unpleasant for extended street use, a departure from his usual preference for aggressive driving modes in previous cars.
Tire Talk: From Track to Street with Michelin
Cup 2 tires
Recognizing the limitations of the factory-equipped Michelin Pilot Sport Cup 2 R tires in cold weather, McCarthy made a practical switch to Michelin Pilot Sport 4S ZP street tires. He found the Cup 2 tires to be “seriously sketchy” when cold and treacherous in even সামান্য moisture or sand. After just a couple hundred miles, he swapped them out for the more street-friendly Pilot Sport 4S tires.
At Spring Mountain Motorsports Park, with the help of a professional driver, McCarthy burnished the carbon ceramic brakes and tested the Pilot Sport 4S tires on the autocross course. He was impressed with their performance, confirming their suitability for spirited street driving and occasional track use. He plans to reserve the Cup 2 tires for warmer weather and dedicated track days, acknowledging that using them on the street would be wasteful and less enjoyable than the more versatile PS4S.
Road Noise and Wind Management: Convertible Refinement
hardtop convertible
Initially, road noise was a significant concern for McCarthy, even with the engine and exhaust in their quietest settings. It impacted music enjoyment and phone call clarity. However, after changing to the Pilot Sport 4S tires, road noise significantly decreased, although he notes this could also be due to different road surfaces.
In terms of wind noise with the top down, the Corvette Z07 shows a marked improvement over his C7 Corvette. McCarthy found the Z07 much more enjoyable to drive as a convertible, attributing this to the rear window design that likely facilitates airflow and reduces turbulence inside the cabin. This improvement encourages him to drive with the top down much more often than he did with his previous C7.
Brakes: Carbon Ceramic Performance and Burnishing
dealership pickup
McCarthy’s experience with the carbon ceramic brakes highlights the importance of proper burnishing. Initially, he found them to be “garbage,” lacking feel and exhibiting poor stopping distances. The brake pedal felt heavy and stiff, making him urge caution to other new Z07 owners until the brakes are properly bedded in.
Once burnished, however, the brakes transformed into “absolutely fantastic” with a linear feel and quiet operation, a welcome contrast to noisy aftermarket track pads he’s used in the past. He does express minor surprise that GM didn’t include steel braided brake lines and high-temperature brake fluid as standard, especially on the track-focused Z07, noting these as minor upgrades owners might consider.
The Necessity of Front Lift for the Z07
Z06 z07 front lift
McCarthy unequivocally recommends the front lift option for Corvette Z07 owners. He praises its “incredible” functionality, allowing for up to 1,000 GPS-defined locations for automatic activation. His Corvette Z07 automatically lifts its front end when approaching his driveway and speed bumps at his club, demonstrating the system’s convenience and practicality. He considers it an essential feature, particularly for the low-slung Z07 with its aggressive aerodynamics.
Stepping Up from a C7: Driving Dynamics and Impressions
Steve McCarthy C7 Corvette Z51
Having transitioned directly from a C7 Z51 to the C8 Z06 Z07, McCarthy brings a valuable perspective on the generational leap. His anticipation for the widebody C8 dated back to 2020. While initially hesitant to move away from manual transmissions, his experience in the Z07 has clearly changed his mind. Aside from limited track time in a Ferrari 488 GTB and Porsche 911 Turbo S, the Corvette Z07 represents his first significant experience with a mid-engine sports car.
C8 Z06 Z07
After the break-in service and track alignment, McCarthy’s driving impressions of the Corvette Z07 transformed dramatically. He admits initial заводская setup felt “weird” compared to his years of driving with track alignments. However, post-track setup, he was “wow”ed by the car’s responsiveness and confidence-inspiring turn-in.
He contrasts the Z07’s handling with front-engine cars, where he was always mindful of corner entry and exit. The Z07 eliminates this concern, allowing for aggressive threshold braking and early throttle application with remarkable stability. While acknowledging the widespread praise for the car, McCarthy emphasizes that words struggle to fully capture its capabilities. He notes a learning curve in mastering the Z07’s handling dynamics, particularly compared to his previous Corvettes where he could easily induce and control slides. The Z07’s immense grip makes deliberate rotation more challenging, a testament to its advanced chassis and handling.
Despite still being cautious about fully unleashing the engine’s high-revving nature, McCarthy has experienced the Z07’s quick and responsive handling at the limit. He plans to further explore the car’s capabilities in the spring and potentially experiment with even more aggressive camber settings.
Cost and Personal Value: A “Once-in-a-Lifetime” Experience
Z07
For McCarthy, acquiring the Corvette Z07 is a “once-in-a-lifetime opportunity,” a sentiment he’s expressed before but emphasizes is particularly true this time. He believes driving should be an engaging experience and his decision to get the Z06 was driven by his desire for a widebody Corvette. Ultimately, it wasn’t purely a cost-based decision but a personal choice of “what do I want?”.
He reflects on his desire to avoid regrets and embrace experiences, making the Z07 purchase a fulfillment of that philosophy. While hesitant to definitively say if the Z06 is “worth” the extra cost over a Z51, he acknowledges they are “very, very different cars.” Crucially, the Z07, like all his cherished cars, brings a smile to his face, which he considers the most important aspect. He even muses about owning both a widebody Z51 and the Z06 if garage space permitted, highlighting his appreciation for both models.
Verdict: The Best Sports Car
red mist metallic
McCarthy concludes that in “Tour” mode, the Corvette Z06 Z07 is surprisingly daily-driver capable, although he primarily intends it for track use. He eagerly anticipates showcasing its performance against European sports cars, confident it will impress.
In summary, he describes the Corvette Z06 Z07 as “freakishly fast, responsive, planted, and head-turning,” a “real joy to drive and worth every penny,” and ultimately, “the best sports car I have ever owned or driven.”
Photos: Steve McCarthy
Tags: Corvette Z07, C8 Z06, 2023 Corvette, Z06 Review, Sports Car Review, Performance Car, Chevrolet Corvette
