By Corvette Expert
Corvette Z06 Z07: A Deep Dive into the C8’s Track-Focused Beast
After patiently waiting and enduring the break-in period, CorvetteForum member Stephen McCarthy shares his exhilarating first-hand experience with his brand-new 2023 Corvette Z06 Z07. Delivered in stunning Red Mist Metallic, this C8 Z06, bearing the VIN 00052, is more than just a sports car; it’s a statement. McCarthy’s detailed impressions offer invaluable insights into the Z07 package and the raw performance of GM’s latest supercar. Initially concerned about the track-oriented Cup 2 tires in colder Nevada temperatures, McCarthy swiftly switched to Pilot Sport 4S ZP tires for better street usability, showcasing the Z07’s versatility beyond the track.
McCarthy’s journey with his Z06 Z07, from the initial break-in miles to track alignment and carbon brake burnishing, is meticulously documented in his CorvetteForum threads. His detailed feedback is a goldmine for anyone considering the Z06, particularly with the Z07 performance package. We’ve condensed and reformatted his comprehensive review to highlight the key aspects of owning and driving this incredible machine, focusing on what makes the Z07 a truly exceptional driving experience.
Z06 Z07 Configuration: The Spec Sheet
McCarthy’s Corvette Z06 Z07 is configured to maximize both performance and open-top thrills:
- Model: 2023 Corvette Z06/Z07 Convertible Hard Top
- Trim: 3LZ (top-tier trim with premium features)
- Exterior Color: Red Mist Metallic (a striking premium color)
- Performance Features: Front Lift (essential for Z07’s low ride height), Edge Red calipers (visual pop), Carbon Flash painted aero and ground effects (Z07 aerodynamic enhancements)
- Interior: Red/black interior (sporty and sophisticated)
This configuration emphasizes the Z07’s performance intentions while retaining the luxury and appeal expected of a Corvette convertible.
Engine and Transmission: The Heart of the Z07 Beast
McCarthy is particularly enamored with the Z06 Z07’s powertrain, praising both the engine and gearbox as “absolutely extraordinary.” The LT6 engine, a naturally aspirated 5.5L flat-plane crank V8, is renowned for its high-revving nature and ferocious sound. McCarthy notes the engine’s loudness, even suggesting it might be too loud for tracks with noise restrictions, referencing his past experience with a C6 Z06.
He highlights the duality of the Z06’s driving modes. In “Tour” mode, the car becomes remarkably docile, with minimized sound, light steering and braking, and early gear shifts – perfect for everyday driving. However, switching to “Race 2” mode unleashes the Z07’s aggressive character. McCarthy describes it as “violent and pissed off,” a transformation that underscores the Z07’s track-focused DNA. He explicitly advises against using Race 2 on public roads, finding it overwhelming for street driving, a significant shift from his usual driving style. This stark contrast between driving modes demonstrates the Z07’s ability to be both a comfortable cruiser and a track weapon.
Tire Choice: From Track to Street with the Z07 Package
The Z07 package comes standard with Michelin Pilot Sport Cup 2R ZP tires, ultra-high-performance tires optimized for dry track conditions. However, McCarthy wisely opted to swap these for Michelin Pilot Sport 4S ZP street tires for everyday usability, especially in colder weather. He correctly points out the Cup 2R’s limitations in cold temperatures and on less-than-perfect road surfaces, deeming them “sketchy” and unsuitable for street use in such conditions.
He recounts testing the Pilot Sport 4S tires at Spring Mountain Motorsports Park, where they performed “extremely well” on the autocross course after a professional brake burnishing session. McCarthy plans to reserve the Cup 2R tires for dedicated track days in warmer weather, recognizing their specialized performance envelope. This decision highlights a practical consideration for Z07 owners who intend to use their cars both on the street and the track – choosing the right tires for the conditions is crucial.
Road Noise and Wind Management in the Z07 Convertible
Initial impressions of road noise with the Z07 were “awful,” making it difficult to enjoy music or phone calls even in the quietest car settings. However, McCarthy reports a significant reduction in road noise after switching from the Cup 2R tires to the Pilot Sport 4S tires. While acknowledging that road surface could also be a factor, the tire change appears to be the primary contributor to the improved cabin ambiance.
Regarding wind noise in the convertible, McCarthy notes a substantial improvement over his previous C7 Corvette. He now drives with the top down much more frequently in the C8 Z06 due to reduced wind intrusion. He speculates that the rear window’s ability to lower, allowing air to flow through the cabin, contributes to this improvement. This enhanced top-down experience adds to the Z07 convertible’s appeal as a versatile sports car.
Brakes: Unlocking the Z07’s Carbon Ceramic Stopping Power
The Z07 package includes standard carbon ceramic brakes, offering exceptional thermal capacity and reduced weight for track performance. However, McCarthy emphasizes that these brakes are “garbage until you burnish them.” He describes the initial brake feel as lacking, with a stiff pedal and poor stopping distance, urging extreme caution until properly bedded in.
Once burnished, the carbon ceramic brakes transform into “absolutely fantastic and very linear” with excellent feel and modulation. Notably, they are also quiet compared to aftermarket track pads, a welcome attribute for street driving. Despite the high-performance braking system, McCarthy expresses surprise at the absence of standard steel-braided brake lines and high-temperature brake fluid in the Z07, suggesting these as potential upgrades for serious track enthusiasts.
The Necessity of Front Lift for the Z07 Package
McCarthy unequivocally recommends the front lift option, especially for Z07 owners. The Z07 package’s aggressive aerodynamics and low ride height make the front lift system practically essential for navigating everyday obstacles like driveways and speed bumps. He praises the system’s GPS-based automatic lifting feature, programmable for up to 1,000 locations. His Z06 Z07 automatically lifts its front end when approaching his driveway and speed bumps at his club, demonstrating the system’s convenience and practicality in real-world use. For Z07 owners, front lift is not just a luxury but a functional necessity to protect the car’s front end.
Driving History Leading to the C8 Z06 Z07
McCarthy’s Corvette journey progressed from a C7 Z51 directly to the C8 Z06, driven by his desire for a wide-body Corvette, a feature he eagerly anticipated since 2020. Initially, he was hesitant about moving away from manual transmissions, a beloved aspect of his C7 Z51 and previous C6 Z06 ownership. His prior experience with mid-engine cars was limited to track time in a Ferrari 488 GTB and a Porsche 911 Turbo S, making the C8 Z06 a significant shift in driving dynamics. This transition from front-engine Corvettes to the mid-engine Z06 C8 platform underscores the learning curve and adaptation required to fully exploit the C8 Z06’s capabilities.
C8 Z06 Z07 Driving Dynamics: A Transformative Experience
After completing the break-in service and setting a track alignment, McCarthy’s driving experience with the Z06 Z07 transformed dramatically. He emphasizes that the factory Z06 alignment initially felt “weird” to him, accustomed to track alignments on his previous cars. However, after implementing GM’s recommended track alignment, the C8 Z06’s handling became truly exceptional.
He describes the car as “very, very responsive” with “epic” turn-in confidence. Compared to front-engine cars, the Z06 eliminates the need to “back it in” to corners or cautiously manage corner exits. McCarthy feels confident in threshold braking deep into corners and aggressively applying throttle early, highlighting the mid-engine platform’s inherent advantages in handling balance and responsiveness.
While acknowledging the Z06’s universally acclaimed performance, McCarthy emphasizes the learning process involved in mastering its limits. He notes that the Z06’s grip is so immense that it initially hindered his ability to “rotate” the car in corners like he could with his previous Corvettes. He is still in the process of becoming fully comfortable with the Z06’s handling at the limit, particularly with its incredibly fast-revving engine and quick reflexes when the rear end steps out. Despite his cautious approach during the initial phase, McCarthy’s driving impressions are overwhelmingly positive, praising the Z07’s responsiveness and handling prowess.
Z06 Z07 Ownership Cost and Intangibles
McCarthy frames the Z06 Z07 purchase as a “once-in-a-lifetime opportunity,” highlighting the emotional and experiential aspects of owning such a car. He emphasizes that driving should be an engaging and connecting experience, aligning with his personal philosophy of car ownership. His decision to buy the Z06 was driven by the desire for a wide-body Corvette and the pursuit of an exceptional driving experience, rather than purely a cost-based calculation.
He acknowledges the difficulty in quantifying the Z06’s value proposition compared to a Z51, recognizing them as “very, very different cars.” Ultimately, for McCarthy, the Z06 Z07, like every car he has owned, brings a smile to his face, which he considers the fundamental purpose of owning a performance car. He even suggests that if garage space permitted, he would own both a wide-body Z51 and the Z06, appreciating the distinct qualities of each.
C8 Corvette Z06 Z07 Verdict: The Ultimate Sports Car?
McCarthy concludes that in “Tour” mode, the Corvette Z06 Z07 is surprisingly daily drivable, although he primarily intends to use it as a “track weapon.” He anticipates surprising European sports car owners on track days, confident in the Z06’s performance capabilities against the best from Europe.
Summarizing his experience, McCarthy describes the Z06 Z07 as “freakishly fast, responsive, planted, and head-turning,” a “real joy to drive and worth every penny.” His ultimate verdict: “Best sports car I have ever owned or driven.” This resounding endorsement from an experienced Corvette owner underscores the Z06 Z07’s exceptional performance and driving experience, solidifying its position as a top-tier sports car.
Photos: Steve McCarthy
Tags: C8 Z06, Corvette Z06, Z06 Z07, Corvette Review, Sports Car Review
About the Author
Michael S. Palmer
Michael S. Palmer is a seasoned automotive journalist and content creator with extensive experience in the automotive industry. A member of the Writers Guild of America West (WGAw) since 2008, Palmer has covered emerging technologies across various sectors, including automotive. He contributes original content to Internet Brands Automotive Group, encompassing major online automotive communities like CorvetteForum, Ford Truck Enthusiasts, and more. Palmer’s passion for cars is evident, owning a classic 1987 Mercury Cougar and a Boss 302 Mustang. His hands-on automotive experience includes building a project car – a 1992 Buick Roadmaster Estate Wagon upgraded with an LS3 E-ROD Connect & Cruise system, showcasing his deep automotive knowledge and enthusiasm. His work at CorvetteForum provides valuable insights and reviews for Corvette enthusiasts worldwide, leveraging his expertise and passion for performance vehicles.
