2006 Chevrolet Corvette C6 Z06.R GT3
2006 Chevrolet Corvette C6 Z06.R GT3
Brand
Chevrolet
Year
2006
Country
United States
Generation
Corvette C6
2006 Chevrolet Corvette C6 Z06.R GT3
Brand
Chevrolet
Year
2006
Country
United States
Generation
Corvette C6
About this car
Discover the history
The 2006 Chevrolet Corvette C6 Z06.R GT3 was an ambitious racing project developed specifically for the FIA GT3 European Championship, marking Corvette’s entry into this competitive series. It was based on the Z06 road car and adapted by Callaway Competition, in partnership with Corvette Europe, to meet the FIA’s GT3 regulations. The Z06.R GT3 was designed with high-performance components, featuring a front-mounted LS7 V8 engine producing around 515 bhp. This powerhouse engine allowed the car to reach high speeds while maintaining excellent handling and balance due to its lightweight aluminum chassis and advanced suspension system.
The Z06.R retained many of the Z06’s original features, such as the 6-speed manual transaxle and dry-sump lubrication system, but with racing-specific enhancements. The suspension was upgraded with double wishbones and Moton dampers, providing adjustability for different track conditions. The car’s braking system was optimized with Alcon six-piston front calipers and AP Racing pedal boxes, delivering superior stopping power. Its aerodynamic body featured a carbon composite construction, including an adjustable rear wing and front splitter to reduce drag and increase downforce.
The Z06.R GT3’s racing pedigree quickly took shape. In its debut season in 2006, the car competed in the FIA GT3 European Championship, impressing with its performance against strong competitors like Porsche and Ferrari. Callaway Competition, the main developer of the car, played a crucial role in honing the vehicle’s capabilities. By 2007, the Corvette Z06.R won the FIA GT3 Team Championship and continued to find success in various European GT races. It also won the FIA GT3 Drivers’ Championship in 2008, further cementing its position as a top contender in the GT3 field.
In addition to its success in the FIA GT3 series, the Corvette Z06.R GT3 was adopted by various privateer teams across Europe, racing in series like the Belcar, Dutch Supercar Challenge, and Italian GT Championship. These teams found the Z06.R to be a reliable and competitive machine, which led to consistent podium finishes and increased demand for the car in the GT3 market.
The Corvette C6 Z06.R GT3 became a symbol of American engineering and performance on the global racing stage, demonstrating Corvette’s ability to compete at the highest levels of GT racing and adding to the brand’s storied racing legacy.
