2012 Chevrolet Corvette ZR1 Total Car Score Analysis

The 2012 Chevrolet Corvette ZR1 doesn't have enough ratings to earn a valid Total Car Score. 
 
Look above the high-performance Corvette Z06 to find the supercharged ZR1. It is America's premier sports car, and one of the most powerful vehicles that can be legally driven through a school zone. Chevrolet's halo car is its venerable Corvette turned up full blast with lightweight carbon-fiber, huge brakes and the stickiest tires. It deserves every bit of praise it earns. 
 
Yet the ZR1 is often discounted for exhibiting too much of its entry-level Corvette roots. The interior, a mix of standard GM parts-bin components, is still below average even in vehicles costing half as much. And, despite its lofty sticker price, the exterior of the ZR1 is nearly indistinguishable from its lesser sibling. It has an identity crisis. 
 
Chevrolet made several improvements to its flagship sports car for 2012. A new High-Performance package bundles über-sticky Michelin tires and staggered wheels, while the interior has been upgraded with better seats, enhanced materials and a reconfigured Bose audio system. Lastly, a new 100th Anniversary package adds unique cosmetic details, both inside and out. 

2012 Chevrolet Corvette ZR1 Model Line-Up

The 2012 Chevrolet Corvette ZR1 is a two-passenger two-door coupe. It is only offered in one body style but there are two levels: 1ZR and 3ZR.  
 
Under a carbon fiber hood (with a clear plastic panel for all to enjoy) is a supercharged 6.2-liter V8 making 638 horsepower and 604 pound-feet of torque. The power is sent to the rear wheels through a standard six-speed manual transmission (the only gearbox offered on the ZR1). According to the automaker, the combination is good for a 0-60 mph launch in just 3.5 seconds towards a top speed of 205 mph. For those who are keeping track, it is currently the fastest American car in production. 
 
Chevrolet has ensured that both passengers will be comfortable with a long list of standard equipment that includes leather and Alcantara upholstery, full power accessories and cruise control. The 1ZR model features head-up display, front bucket seats and Magnetic Selective Ride Control. The 3ZR model adds a Bose audio system, Bluetooth wireless phone connectivity and a leather-wrapped interior package. 
 
Stand-alone options include the PDE ZR1 High-Performance package, with the aforementioned Michelin tires, staggered wheels and a modified close-ratio gearbox, and the Centennial Special Edition with Carbon Flash exterior, unique upholstery and special badging. Lastly, customers may order the Engine Build Experience for a hands-on trip to assemble an LS9 engine at the factory. 
 
The EPA rates the fuel economy of the 2012 Chevrolet Corvette at 14 mpg city, 21 mpg highway and 17 mpg combined. 

Total Car Score is not affiliated with, associated, authorized, or endorsed by, or in any way officially connected to any of the Expert Resources, nor does Total Car Score endorse any of the Expert Resources, or its affiliates.
Click here to see more.