The fourth-generation Chevrolet Corvette – or just C4 to followers – was in manufacturing from 1984 to 1996 mannequin years. This video from Retro Automobiles Eternally compares two of the stronger variants of this mannequin: the ZR-1 and the ’96 instance with the LT4 engine.
The ZR-1 – notice there is a sprint within the title, in contrast to the trendy iterations – was a high-tech machine for its period. Common Motors managed Lotus on the time and contracted the British staff to create a V8 for this range-topping mannequin. The end result was a 5.7-liter V8 with twin camshafts for every financial institution of cylinders – a big change from the pushrod-equipped, overhead-valve structure accessible from different ‘Vette engines.
The Lotus-tuned V8 made 375 horsepower at introduction and 405 hp after the 1993 mannequin. Plus, the mill had a redline at 7,200 rpm. To place that spec into perspective, the three.4-liter V8 within the Ferrari 348, accessible across the identical because the ZR1, made 320 hp at 7,200 revs.
The road-going C4 all the time used a 5.7-liter V8, however Chevy improved it a number of occasions through the manufacturing run. The 1996 mannequin was the finale for the fourth-gen ‘Vette, however the Bowtie determined to introduce the brand new LT4 engine as an possibility. It made 330 hp, based on the manufacturing unit specs. Within the video, host Brad Hansen notes this output is probably decrease than the precise determine, with dynos placing the quantity between 350 and 360 hp.
Retro Automobiles Eternally does real-world 0-60-mph acceleration runs in each vehicles with two passengers inside. The LT4-equipped C4 tallies a greatest time of 6.78 seconds. The ZR-1’s high dash takes 6.46 seconds.
The LT4 comes out on high as a automotive you’ll drive often. This engine is an evolution of the venerable Chevy small-black V8, making repairs simpler than the ZR-1’s extra unique engine.
Plus, the ZR-1 options distinctive bodywork, like doorways that flare outward to the broader fenders. Within the occasion of harm, it is going to be extra sophisticated to seek out alternative components than for a C4, which has a extra widespread exterior.
So, which one do you have to get? The video leaves that as much as the person. Of their present situation, each of those Corvettes are value round $25,000. Nevertheless, the later, extra highly effective ZR-1s command extra, and the LT4-equipped Grand Sport additionally goes for a premium. In the meantime, people with extra modest budgets can try the sooner, lower-output examples which are cheaper, judging by a report from Hagerty Insurance coverage.
