Corvette Z06 Buyer's Guide: Specs, Price, Problems and Best Years by Generation
By CarWhere Research · Updated
The Corvette Z06 is Chevrolet's track-focused Corvette, offered in four modern generations: C5 (2001–2004, 385–405-hp LS6), C6 (2006–2013, 505-hp 7.0L LS7), C7 (2015–2019, 650-hp supercharged LT4) and C8 (2023–present, 670-hp flat-plane-crank LT6). The 2027 Z06 starts at $121,800 for the 1LZ trim, per chevrolet.com.[1][2]
- Model years
- 2001–2004 (C5), 2006–2013 (C6), 2015–2019 (C7), 2023–present (C8)[1]
- Engines
- 5.7L LS6, 7.0L LS7, supercharged 6.2L LT4, 5.5L LT6 flat-plane-crank V8[1]
Corvette Z06 trims, engines & horsepower
Manufacturer ratings. A dash means no source we could verify publishes the figure.
| Model / variant | Years | Engine | Horsepower | Torque | Transmission |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| C5 Z06 (LS6)6,500-rpm redline, titanium exhaust; GM claimed 0–60 in 4.0 s and a 12-second quarter mile. | 2001 | 5.7L LS6 OHV V8 | 385 hp @ 6,000 rpm[4] | 385 lb-ft @ 4,800 rpm | 6-speed manual (M12) only |
| C5 Z06 (LS6)20 hp more from hollow-stem valves, a higher-lift camshaft and a lower-restriction air intake. | 2002–2004 | 5.7L LS6 OHV V8 | 405 hp @ 6,000 rpm[5][6] | 400 lb-ft @ 4,800 rpm | 6-speed manual only |
| C6 Z06 (LS7)7,000-rpm redline, titanium connecting rods and intake valves; aluminum frame, magnesium engine cradle, carbon-fiber front fenders. | 2006–2013 | 7.0L (427 cu in) LS7 OHV V8, dry sump | 505 hp @ 6,300 rpm[1][7] | 470 lb-ft @ 4,800 rpm | 6-speed manual only |
| C7 Z06 (LT4)Offered as a coupe or convertible, with manual or automatic. | 2015–2019 | Supercharged 6.2L LT4 OHV V8 | 650 hp @ 6,400 rpm[1][8][9][12] | 650 lb-ft @ 3,600 rpm | 7-speed manual or 8-speed automatic |
| C8 Z06 (LT6)8,600-rpm redline; hand-assembled at the Bowling Green Performance Build Center. | 2023–present | 5.5L LT6 DOHC flat-plane-crank V8, dry sump | 670 hp @ 8,400 rpm[1][2][3] | 460 lb-ft @ 6,300 rpm | 8-speed dual-clutch |
Corvette Z06 original MSRP by year
Base price when new, as published by the manufacturer — not today's value.
| Model year | Model / body | Original MSRP | Destination | Note |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2001 | C5 Z06 | — | — | Not stated in the GM information kit |
| 2006 | C6 Z06 | — | — | Not stated in the GM information kit; GM pricing release not reachable |
| 2015 | C7 Z06 coupe | $78,995[12] | — | Base price as reported by Wikipedia (weak source); GM's August 2014 pricing release could not be opened |
| 2023 | C8 Z06 coupe | — | — | No GM pricing release found |
| 2027 | Z06 1LZ | $121,800[2] | — | chevrolet.com starting price; destination treatment not stated |
| 2027 | Z06 2LZ | $130,700[2] | — | chevrolet.com starting price |
| 2027 | Z06 3LZ | $135,350[2] | — | chevrolet.com starting price |
Prices are original manufacturer starting prices only. Options such as the Z07 package and carbon-fiber wheels, plus taxes and dealer fees, are extra.
Z06 by generation at a glance
Each Z06 sits above the regular Corvette of its generation. The C5 and C6 cars were fixed-roof coupes with manual gearboxes only. The C7 added a convertible and an automatic. The C8 moved the engine behind the cockpit and switched to a high-revving, naturally aspirated V8 with a dual-clutch.
| Generation | Years | Engine | Output | Transmission |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| C5 | 2001–2004 | 5.7L LS6 V8 | 385 hp (2001); 405 hp (2002–04) | 6-speed manual |
| C6 | 2006–2013 | 7.0L LS7 V8 | 505 hp / 470 lb-ft | 6-speed manual |
| C7 | 2015–2019 | Supercharged 6.2L LT4 V8 | 650 hp / 650 lb-ft | 7-speed manual or 8-speed automatic |
| C8 | 2023–present | 5.5L LT6 flat-plane V8 | 670 hp / 460 lb-ft | 8-speed dual-clutch |
Performance claims from GM
GM quoted 0–60 mph in 4.0 seconds and a 12-second quarter mile for the 2001 Z06, which weighed 117 lb less than the C5 coupe and convertible thanks to a titanium exhaust, lighter wheels and thinner glass. For 2006, GM said the roughly 3,130-lb LS7 car would run 0–60 in under 4 seconds, the quarter mile in under 12 seconds, and top 190 mph on a track.
For the C7 with the Z07 package, GM's European material lists 0–100 km/h in 3.4 seconds with the 8-speed automatic (3.8 with the manual) and up to 1.2 g of lateral grip. Chevrolet quotes the C8 Z06 with Z07 at 2.6 seconds to 60 mph, a 10.6-second quarter mile at 131 mph and a 195-mph track top speed.
- C8 Z07 package: carbon-fiber aero, FE7 suspension, Michelin Cup 2 R ZP tires and Brembo carbon-ceramic brakes; GM says it makes 734 lb of downforce at 186 mph.
- C6 brakes: 14-inch cross-drilled front rotors with six-piston calipers, 13.4-inch rears with four-piston calipers.
- 2004 Commemorative Edition Z06: Le Mans Blue paint, C5-R stripe, polished wheels and a carbon-fiber hood; 2004 Z06 shocks were retuned after Nürburgring testing.[1][2][3][4][6][7][8]
Fuel economy (EPA)
EPA ratings in mpg, city / highway / combined. GM's 2006 specifications list premium fuel as required for the LS7; the 2001 kit calls for 93 octane on the LS6.
| Model year | Powertrain | City | Highway | Combined |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2006 | 7.0L LS7, 6-speed manual | 15 | 24 | 18 |
| 2013 | 7.0L LS7, 6-speed manual | 15 | 24 | 18 |
| 2015 | 6.2L LT4, 7-speed manual | 15 | 22 | 18 |
| 2015 | 6.2L LT4, 8-speed automatic | 13 | 21 | 16 |
| 2019 | 6.2L LT4, 7-speed manual | 15 | 22 | 17 |
| 2019 | 6.2L LT4, 8-speed automatic | 14 | 23 | 17 |
| 2023 | 5.5L LT6, 8-speed DCT | 12 | 21 | 15 |
| 2023 | 5.5L LT6, Carbon Aero | 12 | 19 | 14 |
| 2027 | 5.5L LT6, 8-speed DCT | 12 | 21 | 15 |
| 2027 | 5.5L LT6, Carbon Aero | 12 | 19 | 14 |
Which C8 Z06 trim to buy
The 1LZ includes a 10-speaker Bose system, GT1 seats in Mulan leather, a color head-up display and a removable roof panel. The 2LZ adds the 14-speaker Bose Performance Series system, heated and ventilated seats, the Performance Data Recorder, a heated wheel and memory settings. The 3LZ adds leather-wrapped dash, door and console trim, suede-like microfiber upper trim and GT2 Napa leather seats.[2][3]
Corvette Z06 problems & recalls
| Campaign | Date | Model years | Component | Summary |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 09V491000 | 2009-12-23 | 2006–2007 | Structure | Adhesive between the roof panel and frame may separate; a fully detached roof could strike a following vehicle. Names 2006–2007 Corvette Z06 as well as 2005–2007 removable-roof Corvettes. (22,090 vehicles potentially affected)[11] |
| 14V251000 | 2014-05-14 | 2006–2007 | Electrical system | The underhood electrical center housing can expand and bend the low-beam relay wire until it fractures, causing loss of low beams. Covers 2005–2007 Corvettes built through June 22, 2007. (103,158 vehicles potentially affected)[11] |
| 10V172000 | 2010-04-26 | 2006 (if equipped) | Steering | On 2005–2006 Corvettes with the tilt and telescoping column (RPO N37), column movement can interrupt a signal and trigger unwanted brake application. (40,028 vehicles potentially affected)[11] |
| 16V651000 | 2016-09-08 | 2015–2017 | Air bags | Air bag module software may run a diagnostic test during driving, during which frontal air bags and pretensioners would not deploy. Covers 2014–2017 Corvettes. (3,640,162 vehicles potentially affected)[11] |
| 17V437000 | 2017-07-10 | 2015–2017 | Air bags | Some vehicles repaired under 16V651 did not receive the complete software update. Covers 2014–2017 Corvettes. (40,683 vehicles potentially affected)[11] |
| 19V086000 | 2019-02-07 | 2017 | Steering | Electric power steering assist may fail. Names 2017 Corvette. (26,772 vehicles potentially affected)[11] |
| 25V175000 | 2025-03-20 | 2017–2018 | Steering | Electric power steering assist may fail. Names 2017–2018 Corvette. (934 vehicles potentially affected)[11] |
| 24V418000 | 2024-06-06 | 2024–2025 | Seat belts | Driver and/or passenger seat belt retractors may lock in the stowed position and become unusable. Covers 2024–2025 Corvettes. (13,464 vehicles potentially affected)[11] |
| 25V536000 | 2025-08-21 | 2023–2026 (if equipped) | Fuel system | On 2023–2026 Corvettes with a left-side radiator/fan combination, fuel can spill into the filler pocket while refueling and reach an ignition source. (23,656 vehicles potentially affected)[11] |
The NHTSA dataset lists no Corvette campaign for 2001–2004. Several campaigns cover all Corvettes in a model year without naming the Z06: three 2015 recalls (14V568000 parking brake, 14V570000 driver air bag, 15V031000 toe link) are limited to cars built August–October 2014; 11V491000 covers 2011–2012 coupe rear hatch hinges; 26V114000 and 26V213000 cover 2026 (and 2025) coupes and convertibles. Check every VIN.
Check any specific car for open recalls by VIN at nhtsa.gov/recalls.
Best and worst Corvette Z06 years
Each call is tied to a documented fact — a mechanical change, a recall or a published rating — not opinion.
LS6 rose from 385 to 405 hp and 400 lb-ft for 2002, with revised rear shocks and better front brake pads; the NHTSA dataset lists no Corvette recalls for these years.[5][11]
Shocks retuned after Nürburgring testing; Commemorative Edition Z06 added a carbon-fiber hood.[6]
Recall 09V491000 names the 2006–2007 Z06 for roof-panel adhesive separation, and 14V251000 covers loss of low beams.[11]
Air bag software recalls 16V651000 and 17V437000 cover these Corvettes, and 2017 adds power-steering campaigns 19V086000 and 25V175000.[11]
Seat belt retractor recall 24V418000 and refueling fuel-spill recall 25V536000 cover these Corvettes.[11]
Model-year complaint data across every Corvette: Corvette years to avoid.
What to check before buying a used Corvette Z06
- Run the VIN for open recalls; for a 2006–2007 Z06, confirm 09V491000 (roof panel adhesive) and 14V251000 (low-beam wire) are done.
- On a 2015–2017 Z06, confirm the air bag software updates 16V651000 and 17V437000; on 2017–2018 cars, check 19V086000 and 25V175000 for power steering.
- On a 2023–2026 Z06, check 25V536000 (refueling fuel spill), and on 2024–2025 cars check 24V418000 (seat belt retractors).
- Confirm the engine matches the year: LS6 on 2001–2004, LS7 with red engine covers on 2006–2013, LT4 on 2015–2019, LT6 with a builder's signature plaque on 2023 and later.
- On a C8, confirm the trim (1LZ, 2LZ or 3LZ) and whether the car has the Z07 package; Chevrolet's 2.6-second 0–60 claim requires Z07.
- Inspect carbon-ceramic brakes (C8 Z07 or option) and cross-drilled iron rotors (C6) for track wear and cracks.
- Ask for oil-change records on LS7 and LT6 cars; both engines use dry-sump oiling built for sustained track use.
- On a 2004, verify a claimed Commemorative Edition: Le Mans Blue paint, C5-R stripe, polished wheels and carbon-fiber hood.
Corvette Z06 prices today
Prices on used Corvettes vary widely with mileage, options and condition, so we don't publish a single value. Compare current listings below.
More Corvette research
- Corvette buyer’s guide: every generation
- C5 Corvette (1997–2004) buyer's guide
- C6 Corvette (2005–2013) buyer's guide
- C7 Corvette (2014–2019) buyer's guide
- C8 Corvette (2020–present) buyer's guide
- Corvette ZR1
- Corvette Z06 history
- LS7 engine guide
- LT4 engine guide
- Corvette trim levels
- Corvette years to avoid
- Best Corvette years
- Corvette depreciation
- Cheapest Corvette
- Fastest Corvette
- Corvette build sheet by VIN
- Free Chevrolet VIN decoder
Frequently asked questions
How much horsepower does a Corvette Z06 have?
It depends on the generation: 385 hp (2001), 405 hp (2002–2004), 505 hp (2006–2013), 650 hp supercharged (2015–2019) and 670 hp from the naturally aspirated LT6 (2023–present).
How much does a Corvette Z06 cost new?
The 2027 Z06 starts at $121,800 for the 1LZ, $130,700 for the 2LZ and $135,350 for the 3LZ on chevrolet.com. The 2015 C7 Z06 launched at a reported $78,995 base price.
How fast is the Corvette Z06?
Chevrolet quotes 0–60 mph in 2.6 seconds and a 10.6-second quarter mile at 131 mph for the C8 Z06 with the Z07 package, plus a 195-mph track top speed. GM claimed 4.0 seconds to 60 for the 2001 Z06.
Did every Z06 have a manual transmission?
No. The C5 and C6 Z06 were manual-only. The C7 offered a 7-speed manual or an 8-speed automatic. The C8 Z06 uses an 8-speed dual-clutch only.
Is there a Z06 convertible?
Yes, from the C7 onward. C5 and C6 Z06 models were fixed-roof coupes; the C7 and C8 Z06 come as a coupe or a convertible.
What gas mileage does a Z06 get?
The EPA rates the 2027 Z06 at 12 mpg city, 21 highway and 15 combined (14 combined with the Carbon Aero package). A 2006 LS7 Z06 is rated 15/24/18.
Which Z06 years have the most recalls?
In the NHTSA dataset, 2006–2007 Z06s are named in the roof-panel recall 09V491000, 2015–2017 cars fall under two air bag software recalls, and 2017 adds two power-steering campaigns. No Corvette recalls are listed for 2001–2004.
Sources
Every figure on this page is footnoted to one of these sources. Secondary references are used only to corroborate manufacturer and government figures.
- 2023 Chevrolet Corvette Z06 Elevates the American Supercar — Chevrolet Pressroom
- 2027 Corvette Z06 — Chevrolet (chevrolet.com)
- 2024 Corvette Z06 fact sheet — GM / media.chevrolet.com
- 2001 Chevrolet Corvette vehicle information kit — GM Heritage Archive
- 2002 Chevrolet Corvette vehicle information kit — GM Heritage Archive
- 2004 Chevrolet Corvette vehicle information kit — GM Heritage Archive
- 2006 Chevrolet Corvette vehicle information kit — GM Heritage Archive
- Corvette Z06 Remains Dominant (product information, November 2018) — GM Europe media (media.gm.com)
- 2015 Chevrolet Corvette Z06 is Most Capable, Ever — Chevrolet Middle East media (media.chevrolet.com)
- Chevrolet Corvette EPA ratings, 2006–2027 — U.S. DOE / EPA fueleconomy.gov
- Recalls Data (dataset 6axg-epim) — NHTSA via U.S. DOT data.transportation.gov
- Chevrolet Corvette (C7) — Wikipedia (secondary reference)
Independent reference compiled by CarWhere — not affiliated with or endorsed by General Motors. Chevrolet, Corvette, Stingray, Z06, ZR1, ZR1X, E-Ray and Grand Sport are trademarks of General Motors.