BillY2KFRC

Just a thought I've been having that I haven't seen brought up here yet. It seems the broad consensus is that on 1/13/13 we will see the base Vette and perhaps a "Grand Sport" type/version with some added features but the same LT1 engine. Most seem to just assume any ZR1/Z06 edition is at least a year or two off. However, looking at all the leaks we've seen so far, going way back to that first Jalopnik render, it's almost as if we've seen MORE ZR1 leaks, than base C7 stuff.

On top of that, the Keeks CAD of the supercharged LTx motor and his CAD drawing of the rear end both appear to be from the ZR1. Backing up his CAD and my thought about the ZR1 maybe debuting on 1/13, is in GM C7 Trailer #2, they show a pile of wheels, one set of those match the Keeks CAD exactly. These wheels have a very "ZR1-esque" appearance to them. These wheels seem to provide plenty of clearance for huge carbon ceramic brakes and don't look like something we would see on a base or GS Vette. Then again, I've seen the GM "Cup" wheels on Z06s and 427 Verts, so I guess anything is possible.

Lastly, we have the latest "forum rumor" from barry1me, stating HP figures for LT1 and LT4 motors. If his intel is from credible sources, that would mean we have pics and HP figures for LT1 and ZR1 motors. Making me think both cars may be ready to go.

And to confuse things even further, we have the one Keeks CAD showing the Stingray fender emblem. Now, the rumor going around for the Stingray has been it will be the economy Vette with possibly a de-stroked 5.5L motor. I personally don't buy this and believe the Stingray name (which has a 'performance' connotation to it) could replace ZR1 for the ultra high performance Vette.

This is all just speculation for the fun of it, none of this is meant to be taken too seriously. It would certainly be nice to see the ZR1 right away and not have to wait for it though. Curious what others here think.

BeaZt

I would be more than happy if that happens.

Jinx

It might be nice for us, but I don't see any reason for GM to shoot their whole wad at once like that. The Corvette gets more public attention over a longer period of time by staging the product releases. It also spreads out the work of development, production ramp-up, and marketing. When the work is feast-or-famine the quality can suffer.

BlueOx

The C6ZR1 can bask in it's victory over the Viper at that show...and hints toward the C7 future of that great car can be made. But I don't think it is at all necessary for the C7Z to be there...yet. Who knows...we MIGHT see the C7R prototype though!!!

I think there will be a buttload of specific tech details about the 'base' C7's (coupe/convertible) that GM will want to pound home to the faithful and the newly initiated.

Jawnathin

Very common practice for manufacturers to show the performance versions later to keep up the hype. Generally its a year later.

Can't think of any car in recent years that came out with the high performance model at the same exact time as the debut of the new model.

supermetroid

Hmmmm.......Interesting. I hope they show the SS and ZL1 versions.

Badluck33

I'm still waiting for it to be called a "Stingray"

BeaZt

I can't wait for the tuner wars to start on the C7....mainly between LPE and Hennessey. I'm way partial to LPE for a variety of reasons. Now when they get a hold of it I will have tons of insight to share. Vengeance and MTI are close too so I am sure they will be in the game sooner than later..Katech probably has the inside scoop since they are in bed with Pratt&Miller. C7's will start to show up at HPDE's, the drag strip and our local high speed roll runs. I am sure there will be quite a few stock and modded C6Z's putting the smack down on the new family member and I am sure someone will figure out how to get that LT1 running harder sooner than later. It's a great time in Corvette history right now...im just excited!

C8forT

The Z06/ZR1 replacement won't be at the 1/13/13 debut. They are still working on a transmission to handle the torque. Evidently the new "big brother" to the LT1 keeps busting the input shaft to the current transmissions, both in first and second gear. So, it is definitely at least a year out, but probably more like two.

JoesC5

I doubt it as GM has already told it's dealers, several months ago, that there would be no 2014 Grand Sport, 427 Convertible, Z06 or ZR1.

Supersonic 427

Also, I think there will be just 3 models in the C7 lineup
Coupe, Convertible at first, then a ZR1.

JoesC5

I don't believe that GM will hang Callaway out to dry with the C7, as they have had a very close relationship for the past 25 years. I bet they have been working together for a Callaway supercharged version.
Thus I believe that Callaway will have "insider" info on "tuning" the LT1. and will have the jump on Hennessey and LPE.

JoesC5

I'm kinda into believing that GM will discontinue having different models but will have performance packages in the way of RPO's.

For example you have a base C7.

then a DSZ option(dry sump).

then a TPZ track pack option that includes stiffer suspension springs, sways & shocks and carbon ceramic brakes and wider tires and wider(lighter) wheels(DSZ required).

Then a SCZ Hi-Po (550-575 HP)engine option(DSZ required, TPZ available).

The a SPZ Super Hi-Po(675-700 HP enigne option(DSZ, TPZ, SCZ and F-55 reqired).

F-55 optional on all models but required on SPZ.

Just day dreaming, but might help get rid of the "class" warfare between models like we have with the C6.

johnglenntwo

We were wired together this morning, go figure:

http://forums.corvetteforum.com/c7-g...ort-order.html

(YOUR IN TROUBLE NOW!)

Jinx

I think it would be cool and smart for GM to put the LT4 on a display stand at the Pebble Beach Concours.