Managing editor of Autoweek Robin
Warner once embarked on the thrilling journey to become a professional race car
driver, and knows his way around many engineering scenarios, tried-and-true
tracks, and elements of new car technology. This past week he took on the task
of telling the in-depth tale of how the 2019 Corvette
Stingray handles: this two-seater coupe that punches way above its weight in
performance is the key competitor that is up against the BMW M4, Mercedes AMG
C63S, and all-too-familiar Porsche 911.
All of us here at Chuck Hutton of Memphis were
excited to read about the experience he had with the Stingray that arrived
decked out with the Z51 package: it includes slotted brake rotors, an
electronically locking limited-slip differential and cooler, higher performance
summer tires, and a multimode exhaust. The exhaust system fulfills the task of
bumping up power and torque by 5 hp and lb-ft respectively, and also sports the
added benefit of the Performance Data Recorder. This additive is the true track
nerd's dream: it fills you in on the status of lap times, engine rpm, gear
speeds and wheel speeds.
For a car that delivers up this much amazing raw
power, next year's Stingray is quite comfortable, and understandably can more
than lend a small hand in livening up the regimen of the daily commute. In
spite of the Z51 suspension, the dazzling and sporty new Stingray is also
equipped with magnetic ride control, which keeps the car planted on the
roughest stretches of road and absorbs sudden bumps that come with the turf.
This is a 460 hp car, but even the most experienced of drivers needs to
remember that it is only pulling around 3,300 pounds, which immediately renders
it top-notch quick in any challenging scenario it is presented in.
After driving the new 'Vette around for awhile
Robin lamented that we too often downplay the importance of fun in our lives,
and next year's model “delivers fun by the bushel.” The folks at Autoblog
avidly claimed that “You don't always need a supercharger” in regards
to this model, and we admit that the high-powered Z06 and ZR1 are two of the
most amazing and awe-inspiring vehicles ever created. Senior Editor John Snyder
recognized that you have to work a bit to wring out all the available power,
which is a fun and very driver-focused challenge. Crisp, aggressive, and
staunch styling are qualities that make the Stingray a killer option, and we
strongly encourage you to check out the car that Autoblog also
claims instills more confidence than the Camaro, and is also the “best looking
'Vette since the 1960's!”
This comment has been removed by the author.
ReplyDelete