Now, the auto giant send the 2012 Corvette models back to the German testing ground and the results were more than satisfactory: the cars recorded lap times that rank among the fastest recorded for a production car.
For instance, the 2012 Corvette ZR1 recorded a lap time of 7:19.63, more than six seconds faster than the previous Corvette-best recorded in 2008. As was the case at Corvette's last test in 2008, the car was driven by Corvette engineer Jim Mero and was a full production model with no performance modifications.
In addition, a lap video featuring the Corvette Z06 will also be released soon. This test was to validate the car's added performance technology coming to production later this summer for the 2012 model year.
Key features that helped the 2012 Corvette 638-hp ZR1 and 505-hp Z06 own the Nurburgring course include the new, optional Michelin Pilot Sport Cup Zero Pressure tires, optimized for warm, dry conditions to increase cornering and handling capability, which were aided by the Performance Traction Management (PTM) technology fitted on the cars. Engineers estimate an 8-percent gain in maximum lateral acceleration, to more than 1.1g, and improved braking distance.
"Testing at the Nurburgring is one of the important methods we have to validate our car in the toughest track conditions," said Tadge Juechter, Corvette vehicle line director and chief engineer.
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