First C7 Corvette Stingray Runs Quarter-Mile In 12 Seconds: Your Move, Hennessey

Hennessey benchmarks its very own standard C7 Corvette ahead of its performance makeover

vette

Hennessey has got its hands on a brand-new, totally standard (or bone stock, if you're American) C7 Corvette Stingray. Chevrolet claims the new 'Vette develops 460bhp and hits 60mph in 3.8sec. Hennessey has big plans for the new C7, but before all that kicks off, it had to set a benchmark with its factory-fresh car. Here's the first video of a 2013 Corvette Stingray running a quarter-mile.

Video 1

Remote video URL

This particular car is the very-top spec 3LT model, and is fitted with the Z51 package. What that collection of meaningless letter and digits means is that the interior is full of toys and leather, and more importantly, this is the Stingray for serious drivers. Z51s get larger wheels, an electronically controlled limited-slip diff, dry-sump lubrication, upgraded brakes, retuned suspension, stickier tyres and a new aero package. Hennessey's black test car is fitted with the automatic gearbox, rather than the seven-speed manual with auto rev-matching.

The numbers? Hennessey ran a 4.15sec 0-60mph, and 9.5sec to 100mph. That's a few tenths off the manufacturer claims, but given the wealth of kit fitted to the test car (which adds weight) and the likelihood the 6.2-litre V8 isn't fully loose yet, there's probably more to come...

In any case, Hennessey isn't hanging around for the Chevrolet to pull out its own Z07 and ZR1 models. The mega-power mods are coming. Supercharger conversions will be available for the C7 'Vette from the Texan tuner soon, giving either 600 or 700 horsepower. Not enough. The twin-turbo package will take you to 800 horses.

HPEC7Side

Still compensating for something? Then treat yourself to the HPE1000 setup. This twin-turbo, forged internals, fully stainless-steel, exhaust-equipped beast is on the way soon, packing (you guessed it) around 1000bhp. And you can bet that'll be hitting 100mph a good deal quicker than 9.5sec.

shpec7stingray

Makes you wonder what the chaps and chappettes who build the Corvette at the Bowling Green plant in Kentucky would make of this crazed power struggle. Be their voice in the comments below...

Video 2

Sponsored Posts

Comments

No comments found.