Corvette ZR1 Named “Best Car to Buy 2019” by Motor Authority

The Corvette is one of those vehicles that absolutely redefines “Special:” incredibly distinctive bodywork and performance are just two of its noteworthy characteristics. The very first model was introduced at GM Motorama in 1953 as a concept, followed a decade later by coupe and convertible styles. We know all about the appeal of Camaros, Mustangs, and many more options out there that exist for the track-loving and corner-hungry crew, but this is the one that has been widely known as “America's Sports Car” for decades. After being featured in the early 1960s show “Route 66,” Automotive News claimed excitedly that it was “synonymous with freedom and adventure.”

The experienced and knowledgeable staff at Motor Authority named the 2019 Corvette ZR1 as its “Best Car to Buy 2019” this past week, as all of us here at West Chevy of Knoxville celebrate it outshining rivals such as the Ford Mustang GT Performance Pack Level 2, Audi RS 5, the BMW M5, and Jaguar I-Pace. This very important and badge-flaunting decision was made after a day spent as the 2.0-mile Atlanta Motorsports Park course, where the judges were thoroughly impressed by the sheer force and speed of the ZR1. It's no surprise that after being put to the test, this able crew thought that “It's a missile pointed relentlessly forward, and it's capable of amazing speed in skilled hands.”

Affordable price was another element that weighed itself heavily in the judges' decision, ranking considerably lower than the others it was up against. The small-block LT5 puts to use a supercharger that offers up 52-percent more displacement, while at the same time generating 715 lb-ft of torque, and a very amazing 755 horsepower. Superior downforce was another quality that did not go unnoticed by experienced managing editor Aaron Cole, who also appreciated the way in which the driving experience became laid back when they hit the highway. Flaunting the first-ever automatic transmission on the ZR1, it is also available for the first time in a sun-kissable convertible option, for the first time since it originally was offered in 1970.

When it comes to cars that are lucky enough to have instilled in them this much raw power and appeal, we recognize that sometimes people talk. They wonder if every single individual who has ever fallen in love with a 'Vette will love it, if the shape is perfect, if it looks too modern, does it borrow too many accents from a Ferrari, and even if it is reminiscent enough of models before it to fare worthwhile. All of us here at West Chevy believe that the new ZR1 is everything that Corvette fans should ever demand from a finished product: it is lean, mean, and full of futuristic flair that will impress anyone who has been watching cars progress.

Back in 1974, we were overly proud of the Stingray Coupe: as we look at just how far our favorite line has come in many ways, we remember that this was the first year that both front and rear bumpers were polyurethane. There are so many reasons to be excited about the upcoming ZR1's release, and the snagging of yet another award was no surprise: not a single fan will want to wait an extra minute for a test drive when this winged warrior hits the showroom soon!