‘91 ZR-1 with 38,000 Miles
Not the lowest-mileage C4 ZR-1 at auction, but that will make it more affordable
This black ‘91 ZR-1 looks to me like a nice example of a well-cared-for classic Corvette. I value originality, and this C4 seems to check that box. I’m sure there are a few minor defects resulting from 38,000 miles, but overall it appears to be in nice condition. I’m not a fan of black cars, but I have to admit that this ZR-1 wears that color well.
The fourth-generation Corvettes in the 1990s had benefited from the long model run that started in 1984 and they had been refined and upgraded in almost every way. Three hundred horsepower from the LT1 engine had been achieved by 1991 and the stout ZF six-speed manual transmission had become the standard manual transmission. As I’ve mentioned before, I had a base ‘93 coupe for several years with the six-speed ZF transmission and I thoroughly enjoyed it.
Although even the base Corvette was a significant performance upgrade over the previous generation, the ZR-1 package added serious hardware that transformed the Corvette into near super-car status. The ZR-1 benefited from a much more powerful engine and a wider body that enhanced handling.
The ZR-1 option included a wider body, higher-performance tires, an impressive array of technology, and a highly tuned LT5 350 V8. The result was a car that could hit 60 miles per hour in under 5 seconds and achieve a top speed approaching 180 miles per hour. A lot of engineering went into making the C4 capable of this level of performance while still being an easy-to-drive car. Chevrolet contracted with Lotus in the development of the engine, brakes, and suspension. Even though the ZR-1 doesn’t look much different than a base Corvette, it’s performance rivaled that of much more expensive exotic cars.
The ZR-1’s interior isn’t much different from a standard Corvette’s, but all ZR-1s came with leather sport seats, a Bose sound system, a 6-speed manual, a key to select engine performance, and controls for the FX-3 adjustable suspension. This example was optioned in black with a black interior, and it’s a great-looking combo. The interior presents as a 38k-mile car should, without signs of excessive wear or damage.
The LT5 engine developed by Lotus and Mercury Marine offers the same displacement as the standard 5.7-liter V8, but that’s where any similarity ends. On top of its aluminum block are a pair of aluminum cylinder heads featuring dual overhead cams and a total of 32 valves. Bore, spacing, and stroke are all unique to the LT5, with the cylinders being treated to a coat of Nikasil.
The intake was specially developed to maximize power throughout the RPM range. With the performance selection key set to full, this engine was good for 375 horsepower and 370 foot pounds of torque. An aftermarket exhaust and later style wheels have been installed on this car, but the original exhaust, wheels, owner’s manual, and spare tune-up parts are included in the sale if the next owner wants to strictly maintain originality.
Given the rarity and performance, it’s easy to see why C4 ZR-1 models are starting to escalate in value. The current bid at this writing is $10,000, but with five days left in the auction, the bids will certainly increase. My guess is that this one will sell for around $20,000. Earlier this year, a ‘90 with 35,000 miles sold for $20,500, but a ‘91 with 21,000 miles sold for $41,250, so it’s clear that buyers are extremely sensitive to the mileage on these cars.
https://barnfinds.com/bf-auction-1991-chevrolet-corvette-zr-1/#google_vignette
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