Mighty LS9 Supercharged V8 for Super-Corvette

For more than a year now, the automotive world has been collectively involved in a slow, long, teasing reveal of what will be the ultimate Corvette. It’s been the subject of countless spy shots - both real and fake - and has even turned up at a variety of shows just to whet enthusiasts’ appetites. After the Subaru Impreza WRX STI , Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution X and the new Nissan GT-R, this might be the most important launch of the year.

We’re even used to hearing names for the car. “Blue Devil” was a popular one, hinting at the nickname of the truck-based engine featured in the very first Corvette. We’ve also heard it being called the SS for Super Sport, the classic performance Chevy name, not to mention ZR1, the ultimate Lotus-tuned Corvette, the so-called “King of the Hill”. ZR1 seems to be the name that’s sticking, so from here on in (in this story anyway), the super-Corvette will be referred to by this name.

A big part of the mystique of this new car is its engine, of which photos have been leaked. Dubbed the LS9, the motor is based on the LS3 6.2-liter V8, rather than the 7.0-liter engine from the Corvette Z06. This was done as the LS3’s engine has stronger cylinder walls, which of course plays into the reality that it is supercharged. In addition to the twin-screw, boost-generating device, the motor has been fitted with dual intercoolers to ensure that it’s fed cold, dense air, ideal for generating plenty of horsepower. And while the car might not be called “Blue Devil”, the memories will live on in the form of blue-painted engine head covers.

While we don’t know how fast the new engine will make the new Corvette, it will indeed be faster than the current Z06. The current king of Vettes, the Z06 is capable of 0-60 mph in less than four seconds and it runs out of steam at 199 mph. With an estimated extra 150 to 200 horsepower over the Z06, this new model will be the fastest road-going car to wear the Chevrolet badge. Also, the ZR1 will need to out-do its archrival from Dodge, the Viper. The recently upgraded monster sports car now makes 600 horsepower from its much bigger 8.4-liter V10, a hint that Chevy’s car will make more power.

The Corvette ZR1 will be the car to watch at this year’s North American International Auto Show, and the hype that’s surrounding it is a good thing. Motor City’s auto show has seen some tough years as of late, with waning attendance, especially since many automakers are choosing alternative shows like LA and New York to unveil their important cars. German sports car manufacturer Porsche pulled out of 2008 the show as well. Nevertheless, the world’s eyes will be on GM’s displays eagerly awaiting the ZR1’s arrival, for good reason. Stay tuned for more info when it arrives.