Celebrate the Corvette Z06 LT6 Now Before Its Gone
It’s pretty unfortunate that the LT6 will be the end of an era for V8 engines–what a way to go out in style!
Let us take a moment to consider the specs of the Z06 C8 Corvette. Then let’s consider it isn’t going to be the ultimate version of this chassis. Quite amazing, isn’t it? Especially considering the Z06’s LT6 power plant is the most powerful naturally aspirated engine fitted to a road car. Ever. Those stats come with some interesting perspective when you compare it to the previous generation Z06.
In the past we hailed the LT4 as a game changer, but the LT6 surpasses that engine’s output, and then some. For the C7, the z06 had to make due with 650 horsepower. For the LT6, it makes 20 more horsepower. From 0.7 liters less. And without a supercharger. CNET RoadShow notes that this is accomplished from sharing components from the C8.R. Now, we always kind of scoff at the saying “race car for the road,” but the LT6 shares the block, heads, valvetrain and fuel delivery components from the Corvette racer.
Given that the components are race derived, there’s something to keep in mind here; you can’t directly compare the LT4 and LT6. Namely when it comes to torque. The LT6 is down on torque by 190 ft/lbs, but it is also in a different kind of car. The C8 Z06 is a supercar through and through, where the C7 more in line with the muscle car mindset. Yes, C8 Corvettes are seen on the drag strip, but their proven home is on the racing circuit.
One unique feature that lets the LT6 rev to the moon is its overquare design. In total, 24.3mm separates the bore and stroke ratio, with 104.3 mm of bore. Compare that with a short stroke of 80mm combined with lightweight rotating assembly, and that’s where you get your high revving capabilities. Oversquare engines by inherent design put horsepower over torque ratings, but are ideal for the purpose of road racing. That trend towards the road racing circuit isn’t on accident.
But the main reason why the LT6 is amazing is it’ll almost certainly never have a successor. Upper tier models in the C8 range will have turbo V8 and even hybrid power. So it won’t ever be quite as pure as this motor. So this is it folks, this is peak V8 engineering. Lets celebrate GM for their achievements.
Photos courtesy of Chevrolet
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