The 2023 Chevrolet Corvette Z06 is already a phenomenal machine, but for those seeking the pinnacle of performance, the Z07 package transforms it into a truly breathtaking supercar. One fortunate owner, CorvetteForum member Stephen McCarthy, recently took delivery of his Red Mist Metallic 2023 Corvette Z06 Z07, and his initial impressions are nothing short of ecstatic. After patiently breaking in his new beast, McCarthy describes the Corvette Z07 experience as “freakishly fast, responsive, planted, and head-turning,” declaring it possibly the “best sports car I have ever owned or driven.” Let’s delve into his firsthand account and explore what makes the Corvette Z07 so exceptional.
McCarthy’s journey with his Corvette Z07 began in late November. Aware of Nevada’s cooling temperatures, he wisely preempted the limitations of the track-focused Michelin Pilot Sport Cup 2 R tires that come standard with the Z07 package. Recognizing their tendency to become treacherous in colder conditions, he promptly ordered a set of Michelin Pilot Sport 4S ZP tires for more versatile street driving.
He diligently completed the 500-mile break-in period in just three days, eager to unleash the full potential of his new ride. His initial thoughts, shared on CorvetteForum, quickly generated buzz within the community. Following this, after a track alignment, carbon brake burnishing, and further familiarization with the car, McCarthy provided a more detailed and insightful second impression. His comprehensive feedback is so valuable that we are highlighting it here for a broader audience of Corvette Z07 and performance car enthusiasts.
Corvette Z07 Spec Highlights
McCarthy’s Corvette Z07 is configured to maximize both performance and visual appeal:
- Model: 2023 Corvette Z06/Z07 Convertible Hard Top
- Trim: 3LZ (top-tier trim with premium features)
- Exterior Color: Red Mist Metallic
- Performance Options: Front Lift system (essential for Z07), Edge Red brake calipers
- Aero & Styling: Carbon Flash painted aero accents and ground effects
- Interior: Red/black interior scheme
The Heart and Soul: Engine & Transmission
McCarthy is particularly captivated by the powertrain, stating, “I don’t know what I like more, the engine or the gearbox. Both are absolutely extraordinary.” The Z06’s 5.5-liter naturally aspirated LT6 V8 engine is a masterpiece, producing a staggering 670 horsepower and revving to an incredible 8600 RPM. He notes the engine is “LOUD,” possibly even too loud for tracks with strict noise limits, referencing a past experience with his C6 Z06.
The driving experience is highly configurable thanks to the Corvette’s selectable drive modes. In “Tour” mode, McCarthy sets the car for maximum civility: “minimum sound, steering and brakes as light as possible, and gear shifts super low (short shifting).” Conversely, “Race 2” mode unleashes the Corvette Z07‘s aggressive character. He describes Race 2 as “violent and pissed off,” ideal for track use but overwhelming for daily street driving. This stark contrast highlights the dual nature of the Corvette Z07: a comfortable cruiser when desired, and a ferocious track weapon at a moment’s notice.
Tires: Street vs. Track
The Z07 package comes standard with ultra-high-performance Michelin Pilot Sport Cup 2 R tires, optimized for track grip. However, as McCarthy experienced, these tires are not ideal for cold street driving. “The Cup 2 tires are seriously sketchy when they are cold,” he warns, also pointing out their vulnerability to moisture and road debris. He opted to swap them for Michelin Pilot Sport 4S ZP street tires for improved all-around drivability.
At Spring Mountain Motorsports Park, with the help of a professional driver, McCarthy burnished the carbon ceramic brakes and tested the Pilot Sport 4S tires on the autocross course. He reports that the PS4S tires performed “extremely well,” reinforcing their suitability for both spirited street driving and occasional track use. He plans to reserve the Cup 2 R tires for dedicated track days in warmer weather, acknowledging that “driving those tires on the street is not only a waste, but they are just not as fun as the higher-tread PS4S.”
Road and Wind Noise Considerations
Initial road noise with the Cup 2 R tires was “awful” according to McCarthy, making it difficult to enjoy music or phone calls even in the quietest car settings. Switching to the Pilot Sport 4S tires significantly reduced road noise, improving cabin comfort. He also notes a substantial improvement in wind noise compared to his previous C7 Corvette convertible when driving with the top down. The C8’s rear window design, which lowers to allow airflow, likely contributes to this reduction.
Braking Performance: Carbon Ceramics
The Corvette Z07 features standard carbon ceramic brakes, which offer incredible stopping power and heat resistance for track use. However, McCarthy emphasizes the critical need to burnish them properly. “The carbon ceramic brakes are garbage until you burnish them. Seriously,” he states. Before burnishing, he experienced poor brake feel, long stopping distances, and a stiff pedal. He strongly advises caution until the brakes are bedded in. Once burnished, the brakes become “absolutely fantastic and very linear” and, importantly, “QUIET,” unlike some aftermarket track brake pads.
McCarthy does express minor surprise that GM didn’t include steel braided brake lines and high-temperature brake fluid as standard equipment on the Z07, given its track-focused nature. While not major drawbacks, they are points to consider for serious track enthusiasts.
The Value of Front Lift for the Z07
For Corvette Z07 owners, especially those concerned about scraping the low front splitter, the optional front lift system is invaluable. McCarthy wholeheartedly recommends it, stating, “The front lift is incredible and you can set up to 1,000 gps defined locations.” He has programmed locations like his driveway and speed bumps at his club, where the front lift automatically activates, providing peace of mind and preventing damage. He concludes, “If you get the Z07 option, you really should get the front lift.”
Evolution of a Corvette Enthusiast
McCarthy’s automotive journey led him directly from a C7 Z51 Corvette to the C8 Z06. His desire for a wide-body Corvette, dating back to 2020, fueled his anticipation for the Z06. Despite his initial preference for manual transmissions and attachment to his C7 Z51 (and even more so to his C6 Z06!), the allure of the mid-engine C8 Z06, particularly in Z07 guise, proved irresistible. His limited track experience in a Ferrari 488 GTB and Porsche 911 Turbo S further broadened his perspective on high-performance mid-engine cars.
C8 Z06 Z07 Driving Dynamics: A Revelation
After the break-in service and track alignment, McCarthy’s driving impressions of the Corvette Z07 transformed dramatically. Initially, the factory alignment felt “weird” to him, accustomed to track setups for 13 years. However, with the track alignment dialed in, “wow” was his immediate reaction.
He praises the car’s exceptional responsiveness and “epic” turn-in confidence. Compared to front-engine cars, the Corvette Z07 eliminates the need to “back it in” to corners or be overly cautious on corner exit. He describes feeling confident to “threshold-brake all the way to the apex and aggressively pick the throttle super early with no worry or drama.”
While acknowledging that words struggle to fully capture the car’s brilliance, McCarthy emphasizes the learning curve involved in mastering its limits. The Z07’s immense grip is so profound that techniques he employed in previous Corvettes, like rotating the car with the rear wheels, are not as readily applicable. He notes the rear end’s quickness to step out and regain composure, a testament to the car’s finely tuned chassis and powerful engine. Despite some initial low-speed slides, he remains cautious and plans to fully explore the car’s capabilities in the spring.
Justification: The “Worth It” Factor
McCarthy frames his Corvette Z07 purchase as a “once-in-a-lifetime opportunity,” driven by a desire to engage with and connect with his cars on an experiential level. The wide-body design was the primary factor drawing him to the C8 generation. He embraces both push-rod and overhead-cam engines, front-engine and mid-engine layouts, and both Z51 and Z06 models, highlighting his broad appreciation for different automotive philosophies.
For McCarthy, the decision wasn’t purely cost-based but rather a question of “what do I want?” He emphasizes the importance of pursuing experiences and avoiding regrets, particularly as time progresses. He finds it difficult to definitively say if the Z06 is “worth” the extra cost over a Z51, acknowledging they are “very, very different cars.” Ultimately, the Corvette Z07 delivers on its core purpose: “this car makes me smile, and that is what it should do.” He even suggests that if garage space permitted, he would own both a wide-body Z51 and a Z06, reflecting his deep Corvette passion.
Corvette C8 Z06 Z07: The Verdict
In conclusion, McCarthy summarizes the Corvette Z06 Z07 experience as “freakishly fast, responsive, planted, and head-turning.” He envisions it as both a surprisingly capable daily driver in “Tour” mode and, more importantly, a formidable “track weapon.” Anticipating track days, he looks forward to “chasing down Europe’s finest” and surprising other drivers with the Z07’s performance. For McCarthy, the Corvette Z07 is “a real joy to drive and worth every penny,” unequivocally declaring it the “best sports car I have ever owned or driven.”
Photos: Steve McCarthy
Tags: Corvette Z07, C8 Z06, Z06, Z07 Package, LT6 Engine, Supercar, Track Performance, Driving Review
About the Author
Michael S. Palmer
Michael S. Palmer is a seasoned automotive journalist and content creator with extensive experience covering emerging automotive technologies. He contributes to numerous leading online automotive communities within the Internet Brands Automotive Group, including CorvetteForum. Beyond his professional work, Michael is a passionate car enthusiast and owner, actively involved in project car builds and performance modifications.
