The ZR1 is based on the aluminum Z06 chassis, and like the Z06, is available as a coupe only. The roof is not removable. The ZR1 has more weight, due to the added supercharger and other items. This necessitated more weight saving measures, including a carbon-fiber roof. Since carbon-fiber breaks down in natural sunlight, a special and expensive clearcoat was necessary. The hood and front fenders are also carbon-fiber. Final weight of the ZR1 is approximately 3,350 pounds, which compares to the Z06 weight of 3,132 pounds.

Other distinctive ZR1 styling cues (besides that wonderful hood window!) include (above left) chin splitter which channels air to the right places, (right) front fender vents which allow hot air to exit and (below) rocker panel trim and rear spoiler aerodynamic aids. The rear spoiler is body color painted; the chin splitter and rocker are unpainted carbon fiber. All items were wind tunnel tested for high speed stability.

The ZR1 is available in seven exterior colors, including: Black, Velocity Yellow Tintcoat, Victory Red, Atomic Orange Metallic, Jetstream Blue Metallic Tintcoat and two new colors - Blade Silver Metallic and Cyber Gray Metallic. There will be a blue theme in all ZR1s, said to be in deference to the Blue Devils, Duke University's sports teams. Duke is former GM CEO Rick Wagoner's Alma Mater, so there may be some truth to the early rumors that the new super Corvette would be formally known as the "Blue Devil". Blue can be seen in the engine cover (right), all four brake calipers, and in the "1" in the ZR1 badging (per door sill below).

Above: 2009 Corvette ZR1 in Cyber Gray Metallic and (below) in Jetstream Blue Metallic Tintcoat.

The interior of the ZR1 will be similar to the Z06, including the lightweight seats. Only two options will be available on the ZR1: Chrome wheels and a luxury package. The uplevel interior package includes unique, power-adjustable and leather-trimmed sport seats (embroidered with the ZR1 logo); custom, leather-wrapped interior available in four colors; navigation system, Bluetooth connectivity and more.