The Z06 arrived as a 2006 model in the third quarter of 2005 and is the lightest of all Corvette models. The Z06 was equipped with the largest-displacement small-block ever produced, a new 7.0 L (427 cu in) engine codenamed [[GM LS engine#7h as balsa wood/carbon fiber composite floors and a magnesium alloy engine cradle were used.
The Z06 was the official pace car for both the 2006 Daytona 500 and the Indianapolis 500 race. Car and Driver recorded a 0-60 mph time of 3.6 seconds and 1/4 mile in 11.7 seconds at 125 mph in October 2005.