Corvette Z06

* 400-hp LS2 6.0L aluminum-block V8 engine This aluminum-block power plant, standard in Corvette coupe and convertible, produces 400 horsepower @ 6000 rpm and 400 lb.-ft. of torque @ 4400 rpm. Yet theLS2 engine achieves a remarkable EPA estimated MPG 18 city and 28 highway with the standard six-speed manual transmission. (Even with its performance, the engine does not incur a federal government gas-guzzler penalty.)

* Available power top The 2006 Corvette convertible offers an available power top. The top and tonneau cover cycle up or down in 18 seconds without the driver ever having to leave the cockpit. A bulkhead helps block road noise as well. The bulkhead creates a fully enclosed trunk that accommodates two golf bags. The convertible rear window has a built-in heating element for excellent visibility. Furthermore, the top features an easy-to-use single-latch release.

Completely enclosed trunk

* Active Handling System

Active Handling is an electronic symphony of Traction Control and antilock brakes working through a network of microcomputers, aircraft-style accelerometers, and sensors to provide an electronic safety net. Although no system, no matter how sophisticated, can overcome the laws of physics, this system compares driver steering input with actual vehicle response and, when necessary, uses individual wheel brake application, as well as the Traction Control system, and available Magnetic Selective Ride Control system to maximize the driver's ability to maintain stability and stay on track.

* Available Six-Speed Paddle Shift with Automatic Modes

Get engaged, thanks to available Six-Speed Paddle Shift with Automatic Modes. Identical paddles are positioned on each side of the steering wheel. Push the "plus" button with your thumb to upshift early, or hold out until redline for maximum performance. Downshift on command by lightly squeezing the paddle behind the wheel back toward you. You'll accomplish fast downshifts from sixth gear all the way to first.

Z06 Brakes

Corvette Z06 employs monoblock six-piston front calipers and four-piston rear calipers. Each piston utilizes its own pad. The opposing pistons operate in pairs, applying brake pressure equally to each side of the rotor. The extra-large 14-inch front rotors and 13.4-inch rears are vented and cross-drilled. Brake cooling ducts are capable of moving three times the amount of cooling air compared to the previous-generation Z06.Both Corvette coupe and convertible feature four-wheel antilock brakes -- standard.

Z06 Exhaust System The three-inch-diameter exhaust system features a bimodal shutoff, which reduces noise output at idle and during moderate driving, while providing reduced back pressure at speed for race car-like performance. A vacuum-operated valve varies the exhaust note and volume according to engine load. At wide-open throttle, the sound emanating from the four trumpet-shaped exhaust outlets at the rear of the car is nothing short of sensational.

Double Wishbone Suspension Corvette coupe and convertible feature a Short Arm/Long Arm (SLA) double-wishbone suspension with forged-aluminum A-arms. The suspension is capable of .92g road-holding ability on the skidpad (.98g with available Z51 Performance Package). The Z06 uses a similar geometry with wider wheels and tires to achieve a 1.04g lateral acceleration figure. Three suspension choices

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