Corvette C8.R Sets Record Lap At Sebring

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If the allegedly detuned C8.R can do this, just imagine how fast the next Z06 is going to be. 

Why did Chevrolet go mid-engine for the new Corvette?! Since the rumors started years ago, the masses have screamed “blasphemy!” at the thought of the crossed flags on the nose of a mid-engine machine. If the incredible performance and bargain price of the standard C8 is not enough proof enough, let us direct you to the video below. At this weekend’s IMSA 12 Hours of Sebring race the C8.R set a new GTLM track record twice during qualifying.

Jordan Taylor, piloting the No. 3 C8.R clocked a lap time of 1:55.653. Later he managed to find just a bit more speed and inched that record lap time down to 1:55.634. The weekend as a whole was a big win for Corvette and General Motors. The two Corvettes took first and second in the class, and Cadillac took all three podium spots for the overall race.

This is why it was important for the Corvette to go mid-engine. Chevrolet already reached the limit of physics and performance with the C7. To make the Corvette even faster around a track, the balance and traction advantages of a mid-engine car were a requirement. Yes, this new platform design flies in the face of 60+ years of history. But we now have a $60k Corvette that can hit 60 mph in less than three seconds. We have a new C8.R race car that is setting lap records and destroying the competition from Ferrari and Porsche. We also have even more performance coming with new Z06 and ZR1 models on the horizon.

The 5.5L engine powering the C8.R is rumored to be the basis of the powerplant for the new Z06. Thanks to power restriction regulations the C8.R produces “only” 500 horsepower. Expect well over 600 raging horses in the new car. The ZR1 will add forced induction to the mix, and who knows how high that power figure will climb then. Most importantly, how far will Corvette lap times fall? When drivers don’t have to fight the car for grip and traction out of every corner, they can push harder for every ounce of speed. Reduced weight over the front axle reduces dive and improves stability during hard braking. You can hate on the mid-engine design and rectangle taillights all you want to. The proof that GM made the right call is written across the stop watch.

Photos: Richard Prince for Chevy Racing

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