Few automotive developments for the Corvette were as awaited with such anticipation as the ZR-1 option on the 1990 Chevrolet Corvette. After rousing reviews at the Geneva Motor Show, the ZR-1 captivated the International motoring press in spirited romps through the south of France.

This exceptional machine came about when General Motors and its Corvette Division approached Group Lotus in Great Britain in the mid-1980s with the idea of developing the world’s fastest production car. From that collaboration, ultimately came the "King of the Hill". The vehicle went on sale in 1990 and was available only as a coupe. It was distinguishable from other Corvette coupes by its four-inch wider tail section, 11-inch wide rear wheels, a convex rear fascia with four square-shaped taillights and a center stop-lamp attached to the top of the hatch glass.

The new engine was an aluminum-block LT5 V-8 engine producing 375 horsepower, utilizing four overhead camshafts and 32 valves, with the same bore as the standard unit, but with plenty of additional power. This very special engine was built by Mercury Marine in Oklahoma and joined with the ZR-1 platform at the Bowling Green facility. Enthusiast magazine tests at the time showed data of 0- to 60-mph in 4.9 seconds with a top speed of approximately 180-mph.

Staggering performance and fantastic handling earned the ZR-1 many accolades. This came at a figure nearly twice the cost of a non ZR-1 edition. From 1990-1995, only 6,939 ZR-1’s were produced, making this quite a rare piece of machinery.

This model of Corvette is the holder of numerous international world speed/endurance records that vary in length of 100 miles to 24 hours, all run at nearly 175-mph averages.

This collectable Corvette ZR-1 has been little-used and remains in optimum condition. It is finished in Polo Green over a saddle tan leather interior and is equipped with a six-speed manual transmission. There is a key on the lower part of the dash that allows the driver to change the car from the “Normal” engine power setting to “Full” engine power. This computerized engine module was a very advanced feature in 1990 and a great deterrent to kids, valets and anyone else who was not familiar or trusted with the raw power the ZR-1 produced. The owner reports that there are “dual removable roof panels” – since the panel is a single component, it is thought that this represents the car having two different roof panels. In period, it was somewhat common for a body color roof section to be complemented with a similar glass version.

This ZR-1 is stated to come with many pieces of documentation that includes the window sticker, owner’s manual, passenger easy 123 worksheet, warranty manual, build sheets, spare tire with instructions and extra keys.