The C8 Chevrolet Corvette Can Launch To 60mph In 2.9 Seconds

Next year’s C8 Chevrolet Corvette will be able to nail the imperial 0-60mph sprint in just 3.0 seconds, or 2.9 with the optional Z51 pack added.

These are hypercar numbers from the first Corvette to put the engine in the middle. Both versions of the car complete a standing quarter-mile in 11.2 seconds, with the standard car – that fraction slower off the line – actually finishing the pass 2mph faster than the Z51-spec alternative, at 123mph.

Chevy gives credit for the incredible acceleration to the new rearward weight bias which gives more traction, improved chassis and tyre tuning and, of course, the latest small-block V8 to feature in the brand’s sports cars. The normally-aspirated 6.2-litre LT2 puts 495bhp down through acceleration-biased gear ratios and ‘lightning-fast’ shifts.

The clever gearbox arrangement houses not just the twin-clutch transmission itself, but also the differential, final drive, controls system and its own lubrication and cooling provision. It’s mounted low for the best effect on handling.

A mechanical limited-slip differential is standard while Z51-equipped cars ‘are offered’ with an electronic alternative that Chevy says is much more effective than previous designs and offers ‘ultimate control’ on track.