What happens with launch control switched off...
Just weeks after the 1,500,000th Corvette rolled off GM’s Bowling Green assembly line, Corvette has revealed the prices and spec for its 2010 model year Corvette ZR-1
The 638bhp, 604lb ft, 6.2-litre supercharged V8 is unchanged, but its power is now managed by a far more sophisticated traction control system (no doubt a good thing with that much power under the bonnet).
The new system, which includes a launch-control for the first time, constantly monitors torque and acceleration, adjusting the engine’s torque up to 100 times per second.
New electronics should make this easier
Performance Traction Management (PTM) system, as Corvette calls it, is “capable of approaching a skilled driver’s best effort and repeats it consistently”, according to GM, and "optimizes traction for greater and more consistent on-track performance".
The most significant interior upgrades are side airbags and a new cashmere interior trim colour.
The 2010 ZR1 will go on sale in the US priced at $107,830 (£65,000). That’s a $2910 (£1750) increase over the current model, but still startlingly good value for a 205mph car.
With all the current legal wranglings over GM's future, there is no word on whether there will be official GM UK imports of the new car, so a personal import specialist (and GM franchise holder) such as Bauer Millett is the best avenue of exploration for UK-based 'Vette fans.