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Jeremy Gerber, one of the owners of the Roadster Shop, and customer Barry Blomquist began brainstorming what should go into this car. They had looked at all of the other vette’s that were built, and all left a lot to be desired in the way of design and performance. From the start, they were looking to break the mold with this car. It was decided that the car would have the looks of a modern concept car if GM were to build a ’62 Corvette today. Artist Eric Brockmeyer was called in to help with the renderings and lend some of his design ideas. Several versions later, the concept was finalized. The car was then named the “C1-RS”. “C1” after the first generation Corvette, and the “RS” coming from the Roadster Shop.

The idea for the car was to build a modern concept car version of a 1962 Corvette. Countless hand formed aluminum parts were fabricated and hours were spent on mocking pieces up and simply staring at the car from every angle imaginable to make sure nothing stuck out and everything flowed . Each and every bracket whether it be a fuse box mount or a motor mount was carefully designed to flow with the look and design of the car.

Chassis:
Roadster Shop C1 Corvette Chassis
• Hand sculpted 10 gauge steel frame rails
• Heavily re-enforced center crossmember with 3.5” exhaust ports
• Custom DSE IFS
• Afco Double Adjustable, Remote Reservoir Coilovers
• Brembo 6-Piston Mono-block 355mm GT Disc Brakes Front
• 9” Factory Axle Housing
• Strange Engineering 31 Spline Axles
• Strange Engineering Tru Track Limited Slip Nodular Diff.
• Swivel Link Parrallel 4-Bar
• Afco Double Adjustable, Remote Reservoir Coilovers
• Brembo 4-Piston Mono-block 345mm GT Disc Brakes Rear

Body:
Original 1962 Corvette

Modifications:
• Re-shaped front grilles hand fabbed from aluminum
• Aluminum grille bar with Porsche 997 running lights
• 1-Off headlight assemblies machined for this car
• Custom hood with carbon fiber louvers
• Eliminated the stock cove in doors/fenders. Made a deeper recessed panel with carbon fiber louvers
• Hand formed aluminum window and windshield trim
• Cut and leaned windshield back for more aggressive look
• Removed convertible top and turned into a roadster
• Hand fabbed aluminum arches behind driver and passengers’ head
• Custom machined gas cap recessed into arch
• Widened quarters 1.25” per side
• Formed a rear lip spoiler that carries off the wheel opening line
• Squared off the rear of the car
• 1-Off L.E.D. tail light assemblies
• Carbon fiber tail light panel All carbon panels done by Prototype Composites from Milwaukee WI
• Aluminum rear lower air diffuser with carbon fiber splitters
• Hand fabbed stainless center exhaust tip
• All aluminum, hand formed engine bay
• Aluminum upper radiator cover panel

Interior:
• Hand fabbed aluminum dash and center console
• Hand fabbed aluminum gauge pod with custom gauges by Classic Instruments
• Machined center dash knobs with hidden key
• Custom floor mount pedals and aluminum pedal box.

Engine/Trans:
• Engine: LS7 built and tuned by Turn Key Engine Supply
• Injection: Kinsler Cross Ram EFI with Carbon Fiber Ram Tubes.
• Engine Management: FAST XFI
• Trans: Tremec T-56 custom built by Bowler Performance Transmission
• Custom built 2” full length stainless headers.
• 3” stainless exhaust
• Custom B&B stainless muffler with custom built center exhaust tip by the Roadster Shop

Wheels/Tires:
• 1-Off custom wheels built by Forgeline.
o 19×10 front
o 20×12.5 rear
• Machined single, center lug nut. The design in the nut matches the headlights, gas cap, and all dash knobs.
• Michelin Pilot Sport PS2 Tires 275/30R19 front and 335/30R20 rear

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(from TIKT Press Release) TIKT Corvette C6 ZR1 : Tripple X – for the road Despite its solid technology even an ex-works Corvette C6 Z06 is no weakling. With 648 PS and 810 Nm it quite unashamedly plays in the super sportscar league – and makes a good impression whilst doing so.

If a high-tech and precision company such as TIKT from XXXX then decides to lend it its support, then one can justifiably look forward to the results.

First of all the performance was improved by using modified cylinder heads, camshafts, strengthened valve springs, modified compressor ratios, a larger throttle valve and a completely modified exhaust. After a fine tuning of the engine’s controls a peak of 769 PS and a top torque of 910 Nm was printed out at the performance test station.

In a second step PS and Torque were stabilised by regrinding and finely adjusting the valve seats.

Even greater adjustments were made to the cooling system of Z06, that thanks to numerous special modifications now push up to four times as much cooling fluid through the engine of this super sportscar.

In addition the cooler was encapsulated and installed in combination with a new front skirt. It sounds simple, but because of the targeted air flow to the side a real venturi effect is created. A real advantage for the Corvette’s aerodynamics.

So as not to negatively influence the cinematics of the suspension and still simultaneously increase the performance on the tarmac the leaf springs on the rear axle were retained and new wheel mounts made that brought the vehicle around 30 millimetres to the ground without any lowering. Together with a new suspension set-up – comprising new race shocks – the sportscar was brought approximately 50 millimetres closer to the road, on which the powerful engine can now convert its performance into propulsion better than before.

Better grip can be also be had with the very light Zerra Ultralight Evo 2 wheels, that once more reduce the overall and unsprung mass.

In order to keep so much performance in check you not only need a competent driver but also extremely stable brakes that of suitable size are mounted behind the ultra-light allow wheel rims.

Aerodynamic “assistants” in the shape of a rear spoiler were also constructed of equally weight-saving carbon.

All these measures have turned the Corvette into a Triple X ZR, as improvements have been made to it to fit it for all of sports driving spheres: country roads, motorways and racing tracks.

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The current generation 427 Corvette convertible will be powered by the updated 7-liter 427 LS7 engine that has been optional in hardtop Corvettes since 2006. With 505 horsepower on tap, this engine blends aspects of GM’s top of the line ZR-1 Corvette with the Z06 to produce a convertible that is considered the fastest and most capable Chevrolet has ever built. A top speed in excess of 190 miles per hour combined with 0-60 times in the range of 3.7 seconds are expected to result. The only transmission that is to be offered in the special edition is a six-speed manual.

The LS7 engines hold a special place in the production of each individual Corvette. Buyers can choose to engage in the “Corvette build experience,” which allows you to personally assemble the engine that will power your car. Of course, there will be a specialist right beside you to guide you through the process. This is possible because each LS7 engine is hand-built by a specialist in Chevrolet’s performance build center in Wixom, Michigan. The $5,800 option is a day-long experience that results in knowing that you’ve helped to build your own car. Once completed, the engine is thoroughly tested and certified, and then is covered by the full GM warranty.

The first 2013 427 Corvette convertible is set to be sold on January 21, 2012 at the Barrett-Jackson auto auction in Scottsdale, Arizona. The proceeds for the sale will be donated to the Drive to End Hunger food relief program. If you are seriously considering purchasing the Corvette 427, you should go online to check the range of insurance rates for this type of vehicle at Kanetix. Comparing the rates offered by multiple insurance providers can often times save you hundreds of dollars on your insurance bill. Go online to Kanetix today to see which provider can offer you the best car insurance quote and how much money you can save. With the money you save on your insurance, you could possibly give more to charity. As for the remainder of the special editions, they will be sold at dealerships beginning in the Summer of 2012. Early reservations will be a good idea for interested parties. Although production figures have not yet been released, it’s indicative of the scarcity of special edition Corvettes that the 2008 Indy 500 pace car special edition numbered just 500 units. Chances are good that the latest 427 convertible will be just as rare.

The last special edition C6 won’t be just about the engine, however. A special 60th anniversary package will be included that utilizes a blue diamond colored interior, blue top and arctic white paint. Pearl silver blue racing stripes adorn the hood and deck lid, and a ZR-1 style rear spoiler is included. The hood and fenders will be constructed of carbon fiber, and in order to keep the convertible’s weight down, the floor of the car will be carbon fiber, as well. Optional will be carbon fiber rocker panels and a front splitter.

Special 60th anniversary badges will be used throughout the car, including in the headrests, wheel center caps and steering wheel. This is considered the first time in history that a Corvette will be offered as both an anniversary and collector’s edition in the same year. Chris Perry, vice president of Global Marketing and Strategy for Chevrolet, had this to say about the special edition: “We couldn’t think of a more fitting way to celebrate these milestones than bringing back one of the most-coveted combinations in the brand’s history – the Corvette convertible and a 427 cubic-inch engine.”

(from Chevrolet Press Release) Corvette Marks 60 Years of Performance with 427 Convertible

DETROIT – Chevrolet today unveiled the 2013 Corvette 427 Convertible Collector Edition – the fastest, most capable convertible in Corvette’s history – as well as a 60th Anniversary Package that will be available on all 2013 Corvette models.

“The 2013 model year will be historic for Corvette, marking its 60th Anniversary and the final year for the current ‘C6’ generation,” said Chris Perry, vice president, Global Marketing and Strategy for Chevrolet. “We couldn’t think of a more fitting way to celebrate these milestones than bringing back one of the most-coveted combinations in the brand’s history – the Corvette convertible and a 427 cubic-inch engine.”

The 60th Anniversary Package and 427 Convertible will make their public debut at the Barrett Jackson collector car auction in Scottsdale, Ariz., on Jan 21, and will arrive at U.S. Chevrolet dealers early this summer.

Corvette 427 Convertible Collector Edition

The Corvette 427 Convertible blends elements of the Z06 and ZR1 models to create the fastest and most-capable convertible in Corvette’s history.

Its heart is the 427-cubic-inch (7.0L) LS7 engine from the Corvette Z06. Rated at 505 horsepower (377 kW) and 470 lb.-ft. of torque (637 Nm), it is the most powerful engine ever installed in a production Corvette convertible – and, like the Z06, the 427 Convertible is only available with a six-speed manual transmission.

The LS7 was co-developed with the Corvette Le Mans-winning GT1 engine and features lightweight titanium connecting rods and intake valves, as well as racing-inspired high-flow cylinder heads and a dry-sump oiling system. It is assembled by hand at GM’s Performance Build Center, where customers who purchase the 427 Convertible Collector Edition can purchase the Corvette Build Experience option and assemble the engine that will power their new car.

Supporting performance elements in the Corvette 427 Convertible include the driveline and rear axle system from the Corvette Z06, a rear-mounted battery and standard Magnetic Selective Ride Control. The standard 19-inch front and 20-inch rear wheels are wrapped in ZR1-style Michelin PS2 tires. Lightweight machine-face Cup wheels – introduced on the 2012 Corvette Z06 with Z07 and Corvette ZR1 with PDE performance packages – come standard and include unique gray-painted pockets. Black Cup wheels or chrome ZR1-style wheels are also available.

The 427 Convertible also features several carbon-fiber components that help reduce weight, including:

• Carbon fiber raised hood (introduced on the 2011 Z06 Carbon Edition)
• Carbon fiber Z06-style fenders
• Carbon fiber floor panels
• The “CFZ” carbon fiber front splitter and rocker panels are optional on the 427 Convertible, and included with the 60th Anniversary package

The weight reduction brings the 427 Convertible’s curb weight to 3,355 pounds (1,522 kg). Combined with its 505-horsepower LS7 engine, it gives the 427 Convertible a power-to-weight ratio of 6.64 – or one horsepower for every 6.64 pounds of vehicle mass. That’s better than:

• Porsche 911 Turbo S Cabriolet – 6.90
• Audi R8 5.2 RSI Spyder – 7.58
• Aston Martin DBS Volante Convertible – 7.82
• Ferrari California Convertible – 8.31

The combination of low mass and high output will make the 427 Convertible one of the fastest convertibles in the world, delivering estimated 0-60 performance of 3.8 seconds, quarter-mile performance of 11.8 seconds, lateral acceleration of 1.04 g and a top speed of more than 190 mph.

The 427 Convertible is available in 2LT, 3LT and 4LT trim levels and will carry a unique vehicle identification number sequence, similar to the Corvette ZR1.

Corvette 60th Anniversary Package

All 2013 Corvette models, including the 427 Convertible, will be available with a 60th Anniversary Package, featuring an Arctic White exterior with a Blue Diamond leather-wrapped interior with suede accents. Convertible models will have a blue top.

Additional content includes a ZR1-style rear spoiler, special badging, gray-painted brake calipers and the “60th” logo on the wheel center caps, steering wheel and seat headrests. An optional graphics package adds full-length racing stripes in Pearl Silver Blue, including a tonal stripe stitched into the convertible top, extending the graphic theme over the roof.

For 2013, all Corvettes will feature 60th Anniversary badges on the fascias and the “waterfall” panel on convertible models, as well as 60th logos in the instrument panel gauge cluster and on the sill plates.

Charity Auction at Barrett-Jackson Scottsdale

The first Corvette 427 Convertible offered to the public will go to the highest bidder at the Barrett-Jackson Scottsdale collector car auction, on Saturday, Jan. 21. Proceeds from the sale will benefit the Drive to End Hunger food relief program.

Chevrolet and Hendrick Motorsports are teaming up for the auction, including Hendrick team driver and four-time NASCAR Sprint Cup Champion Jeff Gordon. Team owner Rick Hendrick helped launch the Drive to End Hunger program with AARP and the AARP Foundation.

The Drive to End Hunger is part of a multi-year sponsorship for Gordon’s No. 24 Chevrolet. It calls on racing fans, corporations and charitable organizations to raise money, build awareness, and engage Americans who face the threat of hunger.

A legacy of 427-powered Corvettes

Early 427-powered Corvettes, particularly convertibles, offered from 1966 to 1969 are some of the most-coveted and collectable Corvettes ever produced.

The first 427-powered Corvette rolled off the assembly line for the 1966 model year. Two performance levels of the 427 were initially offered – an “L30” version rated at 390 horsepower and the “L72,” which cranked out 425 horsepower. Both were rated at 460 lb-ft. of torque.

The range of 427 engines grew in 1967, with the addition of the “L71” and “L88” options. The L71 added a unique triple-carburetor induction system that helped boost output to 435 horsepower. Known to collectors as “427/435” cars, these ’67 models – especially the convertibles – are especially sought-after collector cars.

The “L88” delivered 430-horsepower (with a single four-barrel carburetor) thanks to racing-tuned aluminum heads. Intended for customers who would immediately transform their new Corvette into a race car, the L88 was installed in just 216 production Corvettes between 1967 and 1969.

In 1969, a special “L89” 427 engine combined the L71’s induction system with the L88’s aluminum heads, offering maximum horsepower with an approximately 100-pound weight advantage over the standard iron heads. Also in 1969, Chevrolet built two “ZL1” 427 Corvette coupes. The ZL1 engine was essentially an all-aluminum version of the L88, with the aluminum cylinder block and heads offering a tremendous weight advantage for racing. More of the engines were sold as crate engines to racers.

By 1970, the big-block engine grew to 454 cubic inches, just as the trend in high-compression, high-performance engines was beginning to wane. The four-year run of 427 Corvettes was already established as the golden era of performance

Commemorative Collector Edition and Anniversary Edition models

Rare and low-production examples of the Corvette have been around since its 1953 introduction, but Chevrolet didn’t begin building commemorative models until 1978, when the 25th Anniversary model – also known as the Silver Anniversary Corvette – was offered. The Corvette was in its third generation then and at the close of that epoch in 1982, a Collectors Edition was offered, as well.

Those special models launched what has become a tradition for the Chevrolet Corvette, which has offered milestone anniversary and generational collector-edition models ever since. The 2013 Corvette 427 Convertible represents the first time a Collector Edition and Anniversary Edition are being offered in the same year – and available on the same car.

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(from Chevrolet Press Release) 2012 Chevrolet Centennial Edition Corvette Celebrates Racing Heritage

Z06 Centennial Edition to be auctioned at Barrett-Jackson Palm Beach sale

DETROIT – Chevrolet, founded by a racing pioneer 100 years ago, celebrates its performance heritage with the 2012 Chevrolet Centennial Edition Corvette, which features a sleek black color scheme, unique design elements and Corvette’s trademark sports car technology.

The 2012 Centennial Edition package will be available on all Corvette models – including Grand Sport, Z06 and ZR1 – starting this summer.

The special package was inspired by Chevrolet’s racing-bred foundation, which continues with Corvette’s international racing excellence and production sports car prominence.

“Racing and performance are the roots of Chevrolet, a tradition carried forward today by Corvette,” said Rick Scheidt, vice president of Chevrolet marketing. “The Centennial Edition not only celebrates our 100 years, it once again pushes Corvette forward for a new generation of sports car fans.”

Chevrolet will auction a Corvette Z06 Centennial Edition at the Barrett-Jackson collector car auction in West Palm Beach, Fla., on April 9, with the proceeds to benefit the Austin Hatcher Foundation for Pediatric Cancer. It will be the 100th 2012 Corvette off the assembly line, with a vehicle identification number ending in “00100.”

The Chevrolet Centennial Edition Corvette expresses racing heritage, but does so with a sleek, modern, even sinister-looking appearance. The Centennial Edition package comes exclusively in Carbon Flash Metallic, with satin-black graphics and unique Centennial Satin Black wheels and red brake calipers. The wheels are constructed of lightweight cast-spun aluminum and include a thin red outline around the perimeter of its surface on the Z06. The wheels are specific to the respective Corvette models, including 18-inch/19-inch for Coupe, Convertible and Grand Sport; and 19-inch/20-inch for Z06 and ZR1.

Magnetic Selective Ride Control, the world’s fastest-reacting suspension and a technology advance initiated by Corvette, is included on all Chevrolet Centennial Edition Corvette models.

The Centennial Edition also features special badges that signify Chevrolet’s racing history. A graphic logo featuring an iconic image of Louis Chevrolet appears on the B-pillars, the center caps of the wheels, and the center of the steering wheel. The seat headrests also carry an embossed centennial logo.

Aficionados will note one other small detail: The historic crossed flags badge contains a small adaptation, with “100” in place of the traditional fleur-de-lis symbol, only for the Centennial Edition.

The exterior color scheme is reinforced inside the car, with the Ebony leather-wrapped instrument panel and doors complimented by red stitching on the steering wheel, seats, console and shifter. Microfiber suede accents on Centennial Edition seats, steering wheel, shifter and armrests were first used on the 2011 Z06 Carbon Limited Edition.

The Chevrolet Centennial Edition will be available on all Corvette models via order code ZLC. Pricing will be released this summer prior to the start of availability.

“Louis Chevrolet was a fearless racing pioneer who also designed our first car,” Scheidt said. “Corvette is a natural fit to honor that legacy, while creating a compelling new package for sports car drivers.”

Barrett-Jackson auction details

Chevrolet chose to debut the Centennial Edition Corvette at Barrett-Jackson to enable the auction proceeds to go to the Austin Hatcher Foundation for Pediatric Cancer. The foundation supporting children and families dealing with cancer is a key partner with the American Le Mans Series, in which Corvette Racing is an integral participant.

The 2012 Chevrolet Centennial Edition Corvette Z06 (VIN 100) to be auctioned is based on the production 3LZ model with the Z07 performance package, new Z06 carbon fiber hood and CFZ carbon fiber package, which includes:

• Bose premium sound system, with one-year XM subscription, navigation and USB
• Bluetooth hands-free phone connectivity
• Power-adjustable and heated seats
• Memory package, home remote, Head Up Display and power-telescoping steering wheel
• The Custom Leather Wrapped Interior Package, with leather-wrapped upper instrument panels, upper door trim panels and console storage cover and red contrasting stitching
Z07 performance package, including Brembo ceramic brakes, Magnetic Ride Control and 19-inch/20-inch wheels and Michelin tires
• CFZ package includes carbon fiber rockers, front splitter and roof
• New Carbon Fiber raised hood option for Z06, which was introduced on the 2011 Z06 Carbon Edition.

The winning bidder will also receive the Corvette Engine Build Experience program – which allows Z06 or ZR1 buyers to build their own engine alongside expert technicians – as well as the opportunity to take delivery of the car at the National Corvette Museum, in Bowling Green, Ky.

About Chevrolet

Founded in Detroit in 1911, Chevrolet celebrates its centennial as a global automotive brand with annual sales of about 4.25 million vehicles in more than 140 countries. Chevrolet provides consumers with fuel-efficient, safe and reliable vehicles that deliver high quality, expressive design, spirited performance and value. The Chevrolet portfolio includes iconic performance cars such as Corvette and Camaro; dependable, long-lasting pickups and SUVs such as Silverado and Suburban; and award-winning passenger cars and crossovers such as Spark, Cruze, Malibu, Equinox and Traverse. Chevrolet also offers “gas-friendly to gas-free” solutions including Cruze Eco and Volt. Cruze Eco offers 42 mpg highway while Volt offers 35 miles of electric, gasoline-free driving and an additional 344 miles of extended range. Most new Chevrolet models offer OnStar safety, security and convenience technologies including OnStar Hands-Free Calling, Automatic Crash Response and Stolen Vehicle Slowdown. More information regarding Chevrolet models can be found at www.chevrolet.com

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(from Chevrolet Press Release) Silverado Realtree Concept Debuts at SEMA

2500 HD tailored to be the ultimate hunting pickup

LAS VEGAS – Chevrolet has teamed up with outdoor outfitter Realtree to create the ultimate hunter’s truck – the Silverado Realtree Concept.

The specially equipped 2012 Silverado 2500 HD will be on display at SEMA Show 2011, November 1-4, in Las Vegas.

Based on the Silverado 2500 crew cab, the Silverado Realtree Concept features a custom Champagne Silver Metallic exterior with Realtree graphics. Inside is Dark Cocoa leather seating with camouflage piping and blaze orange stitching, as well as Realtree AP pattern accents throughout the interior.

Off-road capability of the four-wheel-drive Silverado is enhanced with aggressive 35-inch off-road tires on 18-inch wheels and a custom front bumper with an integrated winch.

A Duramax diesel engine with 397 horsepower (296 kW) and 765 lb.-ft. of torque (1,037 Nm) provides the power for towing and off-road driving, while a custom rear cap securely stores outdoor gear. Power-actuated running boards improve entry and egress.

“This truck is a celebration of the seven-year partnership between Chevrolet and Realtree. It’s only natural to combine the dependable, long-lasting Silverado HD with Realtree, the best gear for the outdoors,” said Tony Truelove, marketing manager for Chevrolet pickups. “Like all great outdoor gear, the Silverado Realtree Concept is designed to get the job done – and look sharp while doing it.”

About Chevrolet

Founded in Detroit in 1911, Chevrolet celebrates its centennial as a global automotive brand with annual sales of about 4.25 million vehicles in more than 140 countries. Chevrolet provides consumers with fuel-efficient, safe and reliable vehicles that deliver high-quality, expressive design, spirited performance and value. The Chevrolet portfolio includes iconic performance cars such as Corvette and Camaro; dependable, long-lasting pickups and SUVs such as Silverado and Suburban; and award-winning passenger cars and crossovers such as Sonic, Cruze, Malibu, Equinox and Traverse. Chevrolet also offers “gas-friendly to gas-free” solutions including Cruze Eco and Volt. Cruze Eco offers 42 mpg highway while Volt offers 35 miles of electric, gasoline-free driving and an additional 344 miles of extended range. Most new Chevrolet models offer OnStar safety, security and convenience technologies including OnStar Hands-Free Calling, Automatic Crash Response and Stolen Vehicle Slowdown. More information regarding Chevrolet models can be found at www.chevrolet.com.

About Realtree

Realtree is the world’s leading camouflage designer, marketer, and licensor with over 1,500 licensees utilizing the Realtree camouflage brand. Thousands of outdoor and lifestyle products are available in Realtree camouflage patterns. In addition, Realtree is committed to supporting individuals and groups that work to ensure our outdoor heritage, the conservation of natural places, and the wildlife that resides there. In fact, Realtree is one of the nation’s leading contributors to conservation groups such as Ducks Unlimited, the National Wild Turkey Federation, the Rocky Mountain Elk Foundation, and others. Realtree promotes its products and relationships widely on television, as well as through Realtree.com and many other outlets.

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(from Chevrolet Press Release) Chevrolet Introduces New ‘COPO’ Camaro Concept evokes the spirit of special-order models for Stock Eliminator competition

LAS VEGAS – The COPO Camaro is back at Chevrolet, as a concept designed to the specifications for NHRA Stock Eliminator drag racing competition.

“The COPO Camaro is a proof of concept for what a Chevrolet Stock Eliminator entry could look like,” said Jim Campbell, GM U.S. vice president of Performance Vehicles and Motorsports. “And it is a clear indication that Chevrolet intends to homologate the Camaro for sportsman drag racing.”

The COPO concept vehicle is designed to accommodate more than one engine option, including a naturally aspirated 427 engine (7.0L) – the same displacement as the original COPO Camaros from 1969 – and a supercharged 327 (5.3L) engine. Among the many racing-specific features and equipment is a conversion from the Camaro’s standard independent rear axle to a solid axle, as well as a full chrome moly roll cage.

The basic content for the COPO Camaro Concept includes:

• Provisions for two engine configurations (see below for details)
• Provisions for a Powerglide two-speed automatic transmission, a three-speed automatic or a five-speed manual
• High-rise cowl-induction hood
• Custom Aeromotive fuel system, with a fuel cell and integral high-pressure fuel pump
• Full, chrome moly roll cage
• Coil-over front suspension with Strange Engineering adjustable struts
• Custom rear suspension, based on NHRA requirements, with Strange Engineering shocks, Panhard bar and stabilizer bar
• Strange Engineering S-9 solid rear axle with aluminum third member, 35-spline spool, 35-spline axles and 4.10 gear set
• Lightweight, COPO-specific racing wheels
29×9-inch rear radial racing slicks and 4.5x28x15-inch front tires
• Manual steering system
• Strange Engineering lightweight racing brakes system with standard line lock.

The interior is all business, with most sound deadening and power accessories deleted. Instead, there is pair of racing bucket seats (and no rear seat), a safety harness for the driver, a competition floor shifter and Chevrolet Performance gauges by Auto Meter.

The engines

Intended for NHRA’s various Stock Eliminator classes, the COPO Camaro concept has provisions for two distinct engine packages – each built to conform to class guidelines. The details below outline the core specifications of each engine and their intended classes.

The concept vehicle is powered by a prototype version of the supercharged 327 engine, featuring an LSX cylinder block.

The COPO legacy

Since 1955, NHRA Stock Eliminator has been a straight-line proving ground for the quickest cars to come out of Detroit. Within Stock Eliminator, there are many classes, all defined by the ratio of vehicle shipping weight and the assigned horsepower factor. Because of this tightly monitored set of rules and historically brutal competition, Stock Eliminator is the ultimate test for factory muscle cars.

From the “Fuelie” ’57 Bel Air to the ’62 409 Impala and countless muscle cars that came later, Chevrolet has enjoyed a long, dominant position in this sportsman drag racing category. None of the cars, however, have dominated both the track and muscle car folklore like the legendary COPO Camaros produced in 1969.

In the Sixties, COPO was the acronym for Central Office Production Order, within Chevrolet’s vehicle special-order program. Although normally used for fleet orders of trucks and company-owned cars, it was manipulated by a few performance-minded dealers to order vehicles with larger engines than were available in regular-production models – mostly with the intent of getting them to Stock Eliminator racers.

By pushing Chevrolet’s Central Office Production Order special-order program to its limit, a number of dealers were able to get 427-cubic-inch big-block engines installed in a handful of Camaros, when the largest official engine available was a 396. Two versions of the 427 engine were wrangled out of the factory: COPO 9561 was the Corvette-based L-72 edition with an iron cylinder block and COPO 9560 was the racing-designed ZL1 engine with a lighter aluminum cylinder block.

The COPO Camaros opened up the NHRA rulebook to some exciting combinations for Camaro, helping keep Chevrolet at the top of the ultra-competitive form of motorsports. In fact, they were not only competitive in NHRA Stock Eliminator when new, but still hold the national ET and MPH records in several classes.

Racing enthusiasts who are interested in more information can go to www.gmperformanceparts.com to sign up for COPO Camaro concept updates.

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(from GM Press Release) Corvette Carlisle Blue Grand Sport Concept

This Corvette celebrates 30 years of “Corvettes at Carlisle,” one of the largest annual Corvette events in North America. It introduces a new Carlisle Blue exterior, new Silver-painted Torque 2 wheels and Pearl White full-length racing stripes. The Carlisle Grand Sport also showcases all-out performance with a dual-mode exhaust and Magnetic Selective Ride Control. Corvette was born to race, and that performance DNA runs through every inch of this unique Grand Sport.

Vehicle highlights

LS3 6.2L with dry sump oil system – hand-built at GM’s Performance Build Center
Six-speed manual transmission
Magnetic Selective Ride Control
Gray six-piston brake calipers (2012 option)
Goodyear® F1 Supercar Gen 2 tires
Dual-mode exhaust system
New Carlisle Blue Metallic exterior
Cyber Gray headlamps (2012 option)
Genuine Corvette Accessory Torque 2 silver-painted wheels in 18×10-inch (front) and 19×12-inch (rear)
Genuine Corvette Accessory Carbon Fiber Ground Effects – front splitter and rockers
Genuine Corvette Accessory full-width rear spoiler
Genuine Corvette Accessory GRAND SPORT hood blanket
Genuine Corvette Accessory Pearl White full-length stripe kit
4LT trim level with Ebony/Titanium leather color interior and blue stitching
New-for-2012 Bose® Premium Audio with nine speakers, USB port and audio jack with iPod® integration on the touch screen
Genuine Corvette Accessory GRAND SPORT Ebony floor mats
Genuine Corvette Accessory GRAND SPORT console lid
Genuine Corvette Accessory Racing Pedal Package

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(from GM Press Release) Corvette Z06 Ron Fellows ‘Hall of Fame’ Tribute

Ron Fellows has a long, distinguished racing career, including driving on the championship Corvette Racing C5.R and C6.R teams. That resume helped earn him an induction to the National Corvette Museum’s Hall of Fame in 2011. This Torch Red show car honors Fellows’ service behind the wheel, using accessories offered from Chevrolet matched with custom graphics. It’s a fitting salute to one of the fastest men ever to drive a Corvette.

Vehicle highlights

• Z06 Performance Package (Z07)
• Magnetic Selective Ride Control
• CFZ carbon fiber package with splitter and rocker moldings
• Carbon fiber raised hood
• Black headlamp housings and mirrors
• Red brake calipers
• Ebony interior with red stitching
• Suede-trimmed steering wheel, shift knob, parking brake handle and armrests with red stitching (from the 2012 Centennial package)
• Centennial-model seats
• Genuine Corvette Accessory Racing Pedal Package
• Racing-style graphics that honor racing wins, National Corvette Museum Hall of Fame, • Spring Mountain Driving School and Mosport.

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(from GM Press Release) Camaro 1LE Concept

Born in the Camaro’s third generation and refined further in the fourth generation as a road-racing performance package, the legendary 1LE option code designation returns to the Camaro as a concept intended to carve up road courses. While only a concept, it borrows production components from both the Camaro SS and forthcoming Camaro ZL1 to deliver a competition-ready package. Hash mark graphics on the front fender are pure Chevrolet racing cues, too.

Vehicle highlights:

• Victory Red exterior color, with flat black hood and hash mark extensions
• Satin black splitter, rocker panels, rear spoiler and outside mirrors
• Sport suspension featuring Magnetic Ride Control
• Electric power steering
• Six-speed manual close-ratio transmission
• Lightweight 20×10-inch (front) and 20×11-inch (rear) racing wheels (satin black)
• Goodyear® Eagle F1 Supercar G asymmetrical tires (from the ZL1)
• Brembo® six-piston front calipers, with two-piece front rotors, and four-piston rear calipers (Chevrolet Official Licensed Product)
• Dual exhaust outlets with ZL1-style active exhaust and diffuser
• Shock tower brace
• Chevrolet Accessories red engine cover
• Black leather interior with Light Stone stitching
• Graphite Silver door and instrument panel inserts
• ZL1 shifter with Light Stone stitching
• ZL1 flat-bottom steering wheel
• Chevrolet Accessories pedal kit

“The Camaro 1LE concept is all about the track,” said Al Oppenheiser, chief engineer for the Camaro. “It’s an all-out race car package that pays tribute to that special option from the past.”

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(from CCG Press Release) The super sports car customGT – An ultra-light dream car with up to 550 hp

“What turned the customGT into reality was our passion, enthusiasm, dedication, and the steadfast belief in achieving the goal.”

With these words, Tom Gerards, Head of CCG automotive GmbH and creative director of customGT outlined the long development time and the persistent advocacy of German TÜV officials. He continues: “The idea to build my own super sports car and bring it onto German streets with the TÜV’s blessing started in early 2009″.

The basis for this ambitious project is a powder-coated tubular space frame that is made in the USA and re-engineered (homologated) and fine-tuned here in Germany. The outer skin is made from either fibreglass- or carbon fibre-reinforced composites, and toned by specialists in the U.S. CCG makes adjustments to the car’s body and optimizes it for the increased demands. The result is a pleasingly low vehicle weight, which, depending on the equipment, weighs in at only 960 kg and 1,040 kg. As
comparison: The ultra-sporty Ferrari 430 Scuderia puts at least some 1,250 kg onto the scale.

The engine is an optimised V8 by General Motors, which has its origin in the Corvette, one of the best recognised U.S. car icons. Thanks to its fine-tuning, the 7-litre engine produces up to 550 hp/405 kW and screams its joie de vivre out of exhaust pipes that are as thick as a man’s arm. The engine’s power reaches the rear wheels via a manually-operated 6-gear transmission, which was enhanced for use in the customGT. Coilovers were specifically designed and attuned on the 7-post test rig provided by KW suspensions. They ensure to keep the car securely on the pavement and provide the necessary grip in corners and on the racetrack. Countless kilometres of testing on the Nürburgring Nordschleife and Hockenheim bring the extensive development work to a full circle.

The perfect look and feel dominate the car’s interior. A mixture of Alcantara and black leather as well as instruments “borrowed” from the racing sport give the interior the look of a sophisticated command center. Besides the outer appearance, the entire interior and the engine can be tailored to the needs of the clientele. Many important and vital components of this vehicle come from German companies and thus, besides the actual production of the vehicle in Germany, it also bears the quality seal “Made in Germany”.

But that’s not enough: Upon request, CCG equips the two-seater with an LPG (Liquefied Petroleum Gas) system and converts the vehicle into a racy 300 km/h, ultra-lightweight eco-super sports car. “The engine’s concept is tailored specifically for LPG use. LPG is a fuel that reduces exhaust emissions to a minimum and its availability is already widespread in many petrol stations. What’s more, it is “light on your wallet”. The average fuel consumption of the customGT lies by 15 – 20 litres of
gas per 100 kilometres. This is equivalent to 50 cents per litre of gas; just €7,50 to €10,00 for 100 kilometres”, said Tom Gerards, Head of the CCG automotive GmbH

In addition, another model, called “competition”, is planned for spring 2012. Says Tom Gerards: “When converting the customGT model “competition”, we will forgo all luxuries and reduce the weight even more. Weighing in at just below 1,000 kg and by installing additional motor sports components such as sports chassis provided by KW suspension, MOV’IT brakes with racing pads and a special engine mapping, we will optimise the “competition” targeted for use in motor sports”.

Performance Characteristics:

2-seater sports car with mid-engine, tubular space frame made of 45 FE steel (material according to FIA standard), double wishbone, KW suspensions, spring damper units with performance tuning for street and/or race track and multiadjustable sports sway bars. Two-circuit master brake cylinder fitted with a balance beam and MOV’IT 6-piston brake calipers 370 * 35 mm in the front / 4-piston calipers
342 * 28 mm at the rear; Teflon-coated flexible stainless steel brake lines.

Dimensions:
Length 4,356 mm
Width 1,880 mm
Height 1,016 mm (40”)
Wheel base 2,565 mm
Tread width
front/rear 1,536 mm / 1,574 mm
Weight:
Curb weight
(Standard equipment) 1,020 kg (without LPG system)
1,080 kg (incl. LPG system)
Overall weight 1,415 kg
Permissible axle load front/rear 620 kg

Engine:
V8-cylinder Aluminium GM 6.0l, 450 hp / 331 kW at 5,800 RPM, 560Nm/4,600 RPM
optionally
V8-cylinder Aluminium GM 7.0l, 550 hp / 405 kW at 5,800 RPM, 605 Nm/4,700RPM
Optional: dry sump lubrication, oil cooler
optionally
with turbo-charging up to 740 hp
Transmission:
Fully synchronized 6-speed manual transmission with single-disc clutch, gear ratio
according to the customer’s requirements.
Optional sequential gearbox.
Performance:
Engine V8-cylinder Aluminium GM 6.0l
Max. speed variable between 285 km/h and 320 km/h*
Acceleration 0-100 km/h variable approx. 3.5 sec.*
Acceleration 0-200 km/h variable approx. 9.9 sec.*
Engine V8-cylinder Aluminium GM 7.0l
Max. speed variable between 285 km/h and 320 km/h*
Acceleration 0-100 km/h < 3.3 sec.
Acceleration 0-200 km/h < 3.3 sec.
*) Depending on gear ratio and application
Price starting at:
113.500,00 EUR
(Net plus applicable taxes)
CCG is a specialty shop with focus on classic sports cars. Besides the service,
repair, and restoration of classic cars, its heart also beats for individual and unusual
vehicles. Hence, many unique vehicles are created. In addition, CCG offers
refinements of the vehicle's interior as well as performance optimization and
aerodynamic improvements.
The combination of this expertise and the correct choice of cooperation partners,
made what customGT is today. It is the symbiosis of US-American roots and quality
work "Made in Germany". Each component has been carefully evaluated and
especially designed and optimised for the customGT. CCG cooperates with selected
partners and locally based German companies.
Cooperation partners:
- KW suspensions
- MOV’IT