Shelby 350H – Unrestored and 30 Years Racing
Green
Trucks
Luxury
Family
Brand
Muscle
See more sites from  HighGear  M E D I A  >>
Compare this car to others like it Try our car compare tool now

2009 Chevrolet Corvette Performance Review

November 5, 2008

PERFORMANCE | 10 out of 10

Expert Quotes:

The 2009 Corvette ZR1 is the best car ever made
Jalopnik

Base models are available with GM's Magnetic Selective Ride Control
ConsumerGuide

Exotic-car performance for real-world money
Edmunds

For 2009, the Chevrolet Corvette enters the rarefied world of hyperexotic automobiles thanks to the debut of the 2009 Chevrolet Corvette ZR1. Even without this homegrown supercar, the 2009 Chevrolet Corvette is quite possibly one of the most engaging and exciting cars on the road.

Throughout the lineup, the 2009 Chevrolet Corvette has very high power ratings for the price. Edmunds reviewers say that even the base Chevrolet Corvette coupe and convertible "feature a 6.2-liter V8 that makes an impressive 430 hp and 424 lb-ft of torque," while "the optional dual-mode exhaust adds another 6 hp and 4 lb-ft." Moving up to the even more potent Chevrolet Corvette Z06, Cars.com reports that an "LS7 V8 engine that generates 505 hp at 6,300 rpm and 470 pounds-feet of torque at 4,800 rpm" rests under the hood. New for this model year is the 2009 Chevrolet Corvette ZR1, which boasts "an otherworldly 638 hp and 604 lb-ft of torque" courtesy of its 6.2-liter supercharged V-8 engine, states Edmunds. Reviews read by TheCarConnection.com show that all the available engines are incredibly potent, and ConsumerGuide rates even the base Chevrolet Corvette a 10 out of 10 for acceleration. ConsumerGuide proclaims that those "base Corvettes are plenty quick by any measure, with strong power from a stop and during highway passing and merging." Kelley Blue Book observes that the base "6.2-liter V8 delivers abundant power throughout its speed range," and impressions of the Z06 and 2009 Chevrolet Corvette ZR1's engines are even better. Edmunds contends that while the "base coupe [goes] from zero to 60 mph in 4.5 seconds," a Chevrolet Corvette "Z06 will knock that down to 3.9 seconds." ConsumerGuide reviewers are stunned to find that the 2009 Chevrolet Corvette ZR1 "will do 0-60 in a scorching 3.4 seconds," which ranks it among the quickest cars in the world. Not only is the big supercharged engine powerful, but it's quite refined as well. Jalopnik attests that "it feels like something that belongs in a big German luxury car," since "it makes driving effortless."

The 2009 Chevrolet Corvette lineup features two transmissions to harness the power of the V-8s that sit up front. Edmunds reviewers report that "all 2009 Chevrolet Corvettes have a six-speed manual gearbox as standard, while a six-speed paddle-shifted automatic is a no-cost option for the base coupe and convertible." Reviews of the manual transmission are glowing, with Jalopnik claiming that "a twin-disc clutch leads to easy pedal throw" on manual-transmission versions, "while a precise gate makes finding gears simple." Comments regarding the automatic transmission aren’t quite as positive. ConsumerGuide says it "shifts smoothly, but downshifts often require a deep stab of the throttle"; however, "manual shifting via the steering-wheel paddles helps."

Despite the abundant power that the 2009 Chevrolet Corvette delivers, fuel economy is surprisingly high. The EPA estimates that base Chevrolet Corvettes will get 15 mpg city and 25 mpg highway with the automatic transmission, while the manual bumps each of those numbers up by 1 mpg. The Chevrolet Corvette Z06 also gets 15 mpg city and 24 mpg on the highway, while the 2009 Chevrolet Corvette ZR1 boasts 14 mpg in the city and 20 mpg on the highway. ConsumerGuide finds that "these figures are impressive given Corvette's power."

Chevrolet Corvettes have always been able to go fast in a straight line, but the latest generation also boasts very capable handlers. Motor Trend states that "three suspension choices allow drivers to choose the setup that best suits their driving style," while "the optional Magnetic Selective Ride Control suspension features magnetic dampers able to detect road surfaces and adjust the damping rates to those surfaces almost instantly for optimal ride control." The result, says Edmunds, is that "on a deserted twisty road, the driver will likely run out of talent before the Corvette runs out of capability." When reporting on the 2009 Chevrolet Corvette ZR1, Jalopnik claims that "despite all the headline numbers, this car isn't about power, it's about handling." The ride is also commendable for such a capable vehicle, with ConsumerGuide finding that "base models with the standard suspension ride surprisingly well" and "convertibles have impressively little structural shake and body quiver." If you put the suspension "in the touring mode [Corvette] soaks up road harshness like a large luxury sedan," according to Kelley Blue Book. All the power available in the 2009 Chevrolet Corvette can get drivers into trouble in a hurry if there's no easy way to harness it, though fortunately, Edmunds reviewers claim "the brakes are strong and fade-free and there's massive grip from the tires."

Conclusion

No other sportscar on the planet offers the daily drivability and sheer performance potential of the 2009 Chevrolet Corvette.

PERFORMANCE | 10 out of 10Expert Quotes:The 2009 Corvette ZR1 is the best car ever madeJalopnikBase models are available with GM's Magnetic Selective Ride ControlConsumerGuideExotic-car performance for real-world moneyEdmunds For 2009, the Chevrolet Corvette enters the rarefied world of hyperexotic automobiles thanks to the debut of the 2009 Chevrolet Corvette ZR1. Even without this homegrown supercar, the 2009 Chevrolet Corvette is quite possibly one of the most engaging and exciting cars on the road. Throughout the lineup, the 2009 Chevrolet Corvette has very high power ratings for the price. Edmunds reviewers say that even the base Chevrolet Corvette coupe and convertible "feature a 6.2-liter V8 that makes an impressive 430 hp and 424 lb-ft of torque," while "the optional dual-mode exhaust adds another 6 hp and 4 lb-ft." Moving up to the even more potent Chevrolet Corvette Z06, Cars.com reports that an "LS7 V8 engine that generates 505 hp at 6,300 rpm and 470 pounds-feet of torque at 4,800 rpm" rests under the hood. New for this model year is the 2009 Chevrolet Corvette ZR1, which boasts "an otherworldly 638 hp and 604 lb-ft of torque" courtesy of its 6.2-liter supercharged V-8 engine, states Edmunds. Reviews read by TheCarConnection.com show that all the available engines are incredibly potent, and ConsumerGuide rates even the base Chevrolet Corvette a 10 out of 10 for acceleration. ConsumerGuide proclaims that those "base Corvettes are plenty quick by any measure, with strong power from a stop and during highway passing and merging." Kelley Blue Book observes that the base "6.2-liter V8 delivers abundant power throughout its speed range," and impressions of the Z06 and 2009 Chevrolet Corvette ZR1's engines are even better. Edmunds contends that while the "base coupe [goes] from zero to 60 mph in 4.5 seconds," a Chevrolet Corvette "Z06 will knock that down to 3.9 seconds." ConsumerGuide reviewers are stunned to find that the 2009 Chevrolet Corvette ZR1 "will do 0-60 in a scorching 3.4 seconds," which ranks it among the quickest cars in the world. Not only is the big supercharged engine powerful, but it's quite refined as well. Jalopnik attests that "it feels like something that belongs in a big German luxury car," since "it makes driving effortless." The 2009 Chevrolet Corvette lineup features two transmissions to harness the power of the V-8s that sit up front. Edmunds reviewers report that "all 2009 Chevrolet Corvettes have a six-speed manual gearbox as standard, while a six-speed paddle-shifted automatic is a no-cost option for the base coupe and convertible." Reviews of the manual transmission are glowing, with Jalopnik claiming that "a twin-disc clutch leads to easy pedal throw" on manual-transmission versions, "while a precise gate makes finding gears simple." Comments regarding the automatic transmission aren’t quite as positive. ConsumerGuide says it "shifts smoothly, but downshifts often require a deep stab of the throttle"; however, "manual shifting via the steering-wheel paddles helps." Despite the abundant power that the 2009 Chevrolet Corvette delivers, fuel economy is surprisingly high. The EPA estimates that base Chevrolet Corvettes will get 15 mpg city and 25 mpg highway with the automatic transmission, while the manual bumps each of those numbers up by 1 mpg. The Chevrolet Corvette Z06 also gets 15 mpg city and 24 mpg on the highway, while the 2009 Chevrolet Corvette ZR1 boasts 14 mpg in the city and 20 mpg on the highway. ConsumerGuide finds that "these figures are impressive given Corvette's power." Chevrolet Corvettes have always been able to go fast in a straight line, but the latest generation also boasts very capable handlers. Motor Trend states that "three suspension choices allow drivers to choose the setup that best suits their driving style," while "the optional Magnetic Selective Ride Control suspension features magnetic dampers able to detect road surfaces and adjust the damping rates to those surfaces almost instantly for optimal ride control." The result, says Edmunds, is that "on a deserted twisty road, the driver will likely run out of talent before the Corvette runs out of capability." When reporting on the 2009 Chevrolet Corvette ZR1, Jalopnik claims that "despite all the headline numbers, this car isn't about power, it's about handling." The ride is also commendable for such a capable vehicle, with ConsumerGuide finding that "base models with the standard suspension ride surprisingly well" and "convertibles have impressively little structural shake and body quiver." If you put the suspension "in the touring mode [Corvette] soaks up road harshness like a large luxury sedan," according to Kelley Blue Book. All the power available in the 2009 Chevrolet Corvette can get drivers into trouble in a hurry if there's no easy way to harness it, though fortunately, Edmunds reviewers claim "the brakes are strong and fade-free and there's massive grip from the tires." ConclusionNo other sportscar on the planet offers the daily drivability and sheer performance potential of the 2009 Chevrolet Corvette. 2009 CHEVROLET CORVETTE STYLING | [9 out of 10] ConsumerGuide: "Available navigation system includes, but doesn't complicate, audio functions" Edmunds: "Z06 and ZR1 look too much like the standard Corvette" Kelley Blue Book: "Overall look is less boy-racer and more sophisticated sports ...

Read More of this Review:

  1. styling
  2. performance
  3. quality
  4. safety
  5. features

Other Choices:

For more than a decade, the Corvette's arch nemesis has been the Dodge Viper. The ultimate Dodge boasts an 8.4-liter V-10 engine pumping out an even 600 horsepower. The standard Viper aligns most closely with the Z06 Corvette. The Viper humbles the standard Corvette but is outgunned by the ZR1. Unlike years past, in 2009 there's a new competitor: the formidable Nissan GT-R. With 480 horsepower backed by an all-wheel-drive system and sophisticated electronics, the GT-R has proven itself worthy.

Next Steps:

Get a free price quote

for the 2009 Chevrolet Corvette from a dealer near you

Check Insurance Rates

for the 2009 Chevrolet Corvette

Check Financing Rates

for the 2009 Chevrolet Corvette

Check Local Classifieds

for a 2009 Chevrolet Corvette near you

See the Chevrolet Corvette in Other Years:

2010 | 2009 | 2008 | 2007 | 2006 | 2005 | 2004 | 2003 | 2002 | 2001 | 2000 | 1999 | 1998 | 1997

Comments (7 total)

  1. By Jack #1, Posted: 3/31/2009

    Corvette "humbled" by Viper??

    Hold shitski dude! Comparing the Viper (with a V10, idiot) to a Corvette (standard V8) and saying the Viper 'humbles' the Corvette is like comparing the covered wagon to the Space Shuttle!. You cannot put both cars in the same catogory with dissimliar engine displacement and cylinders! If thats the case, then lets compare Indy Formula's to the Viper and say they 'humble' the Viper! Get the numbers right before you try and skew numbers to impress the public with inaccurate information!

  2. By Jack #2, Posted: 3/31/2009

    Corvette "humbled" by Viper??

    Hold shitski dude! Comparing the Viper (with a V10, idiot) to a Corvette (standard V8) and saying the Viper 'humbles' the Corvette is like comparing the covered wagon to the Space Shuttle!. You cannot put both cars in the same catogory with dissimliar engine displacement and cylinders! If thats the case, then lets compare Indy Formula's to the Viper and say they 'humble' the Viper! Get the numbers right before you try and skew numbers to impress the public with inaccurate information!

  3. By Lynn #3, Posted: 6/2/2009

    What the heck is the deal here? Talking trash about a 'vette on it's own page? Stick that Viper up a Neon's exhaust pipe! Hopefully, the Viper's page is similarly trashed.

  4. By  Wristband Man #4, Posted: 6/2/2009

    Just bought my new 2009 Cyber Gray Corvette Coupe. Purchase went great, love the car and the dealer, Friendly Chevrolet in Puyallup WA made the sale fun and simple. All the employees were there were supper friendly and helpful. I will buy from them again, may a z07 or z08 next time.
    Thanks again Dwayne

  5. By Magicrat #5, Posted: 7/29/2009

    I will pick up my 2009 1LT Crystal Red Corvette on Friday 7/31/09. I am truly looking forward to the moment. I am a former auto mechanic who has rebuilt, serviced and admired GM's 1960-1970's muscle cars all of my life. The car that I purchased outperforms almost all of them in every way. 40 years after the introduction of my first car (1989 Chevelle SS 396 and later, a 327 Malibu Convertible), I will be bringing home a 2009 Corvette 376! This is a great example of what GN can do when it's not micromanaged or mismanaged. I have owned two Porsches, three BMWs and one Mercedes (along with several Mazda RX-7's), and none have given me the excitement of my two Chevelles.
    In my opinion, nothing can touch the Corvette in performance for the buck. I hope GM survives, but if not, it will be nice to know that I nave owned a part of American History and Pride.

  6. By eric #6, Posted: 8/13/2009

    I have put 12000 miles on my "08 Atomic Orange Corvette Coupe. Couldn't be happier with the superior performance and style, but alas, it is still a GM product with the obligatory squeaks and rattles. My local dealer's corvette technician is such a gear head that, when I brought to his atttention a door panel rattle while listening to music, he told me that I didn't need to listening to music in the corvette. Oh well, I still love the car.

  7. By Alex #7, Posted: 11/20/2009

    I just bought 2009 Corvette and have put on only 2500 miles but the rattling noise coming from the driver side door panel is really annoying especially when driving on the highway. The rattling noise is more pronounced when listering to music. Yes, I do love the styling and its performance but the constant rattling noise is annoying. Any suggestions?

Post a comment

Post anonymously, or
(Required)
(Required - will not be published, sold or shared)
(Optional - your 'posted by' name will link to the URL)

Remember Me?

I have read TheCarConnection.com's privacy policy