Every generation of Corvette brings something special, something to be remembered by. In the case of the fifth generation, or C5, it was the Z06 as the successor to the C4’s ZR-1. The Z06 is the high-performance variant of the Corvette, and was available only as a fixed-head coupe. This is as hardcore as a C5 gets, and in the case of this specific 2002 Chevrolet Corvette Z06, it’s gotten even more hardcore in the performance department. With just 49,300 miles done, read on to find out why it deserves a place in your heart and a space in your driveway.

Exterior and Interior

As we mentioned, the Z06 was only available as a fixed-head coupe, for maximum body rigidity. This 2002 Chevrolet Corvette Z06 showcases the unique design in a bright blue paintjob, punctuated by reportedly new black double-five-spoke alloys that are said to wear new tires, and red brake calipers lurk behind. Look closer and you can observe slotted brake rotors as well. The C5 was also the last generation of ‘Vette to sport the iconic pop-up headlamps, and you can see that they work very well on this example. Out back, the signature ‘Vette quad exhaust outlets are present and correct, and a smattering of Z06 405hp badges are present, albeit moot, and you will learn why in the Engine section. The two-seat interior sports and black and red color theme. You’ve got power windows, power mirrors, dual-zone climate control, Bose sound system, Delco CD/radio with Theftlock, and dual airbags. The clear analog instrument cluster features a chequered motif as the background on the dials. The seats sport the Z06 logo in the headrests as well.

Engine

The standard engine configuration for a C5 Z06 is a 5.7L LS6 V8 engine that put out 405hp and 400lb-ft to the rear wheels via a six-speed manual transmission. However, this 2002 Chevrolet Corvette Z06’s LS6 has been reportedly endowed with a Procharger, long tube headers, aftermarket camshaft, rebuilt heads, Borla axle back exhaust, and McCloud RST twin disc clutch. All this makes for a very tidy 637 wheel horsepower reported from the dyno sheet. Hey, we did tell you that this ‘Vette was the hardcore of hardcore.