Hearing engines roar raucously while they are being put to the test is always exciting, and a legendary setting next to age-old forests and castles is about as awesome as it gets. The track at Nurburgring is a 150,000 capacity motorsports complex that features a Grand Prix racetrack completed in 1984, and was originally constructed during the 1920's. Views of the Eiffel mountains and Nurburg castle are abundant while zipping around the various courses here, and scores of motorists have dreamed of one day seeing this world-famous location and proving ground for themselves. During the early 1920's, DAC Eifelrennen races were held on public roads, and the dangers that ensued were part of the reason why Nurburgring was eventually constructed.
Designed by Gustav Eichler, construction of this iconic track began in 1925. Two years later the job was completed, and the ADAC Eifelrennen races continued there. One of the most notable events to ever take place at the Nurburgring was during 1961, when Phill Hall became the first driver to ever complete a lap of the Nordschleife in under 9 minutes. Just over the past few weeks, an incredibly exciting sighting has occurred here: a lightly camouflaged 2018 Corvette ZR1 has been making its rounds around the track. One of the most noticeable features is the huge rear wing: It rides incredibly high and has huge end plates. A bit reminiscent of what you can find on the Dodge Viper ACR, we suspect that it is put here for downforce, an aid to helping the car with as much potential for speed and agility as possible.
There is ample space on the front air dam to keep the V8 in question cool, and the very high power dome on the hood makes one suspect that is going to be a high-performing version of the 6.2 liter. Wheels on the 2018 ZR1 are reported to be on the large side, and shaved aggressively for superior handling. Some say that this spectacular addition to the Corvette fleet will be unveiled at an IMSA race, or the Corvette Museum itself. If the latter is the case, a trip to this one-of-a-kind shrine may be in order: it features over 80 Corvettes in periodic settings, as well as mint classics on display. You can also browse the 8,000 square foot exhibit hall, that rotates between 3 top-of-the-line Corvette displays during each fun-filled year.
The Corvette is a car that has been produced through seven generations. Originally built right here in St. Louis, we still have deep ties to every single model that comes off the line in Bowling Green. In 1988 when the look overall was revolutionized by the coupe, many enthusiasts understandably coveted the telltale curvature and signature sound of these upper-end playthings. The production of the ZR1 was formally announced in December 2007, and the premise of the 6.2-liter engine was the most powerful to be put into a GM production sports car ever. A model that some buyers were lucky enough to go to the Michigan Performance Build Center and give their own assisting hand with, this release is sure to blow the doors off the Corvette fan club, and remind us all how and why legends are cultivated!
