Go
back
The other big news during the test was the official
announcement that #3 car was equipped with the new 7-litre LS-1 engine. Seven
liters translates out to 427 cubic inches - the magic number to Corvette performance
enthusiasts. This new engine will keep the legacy alive with its startling performance.
While this was the first official announcement that the Corvette is using a
427 engine, it has already seen combat at the last two races of the 99
season, Laguna Seca and Las Vegas. Details of the internal engine design are
still sketchy, but it was obvious during the test sessions that the engine sounded
different and produced a lot more torque out of the corners than the 6-litre
engine in car #73.
Finally, both cars were conducting brake tests. The
#73 car was equipped with standard steel brake rotors and the #3 car ran hi-tech
carbon fiber rotors and pads. The reason for the difference is that Daytona
will not allow teams to use carbon fibre brakes at their 24-hour race because
of cost. The American Petit Le Mans series and the 24 Hours of Le Mans in France
allow carbon fiber brakes. Do these multi-thousand dollar brakes make a difference?
How about almost 2 seconds a lap quicker at Sebring! Problem is, the carbon
fibers are messy - the #3 car was completely covered with fine black powder
at the end of the test session. Team Corvette might have to install a car wash
in the pits.
It is very clear to CorvetteMagazine.com that Doug Fehan and Team Corvette
are applying the lessons learned from the 1999 debut season. They know they
need more power and better handling to match the

The
"tall car" (because of its tall drivers) carried the Corvette flag
most of the season. Corvette Racing brought the car down to Sebring to evaluate
new carbon fiber brakes and the new 7-liter (427 cubic inches) engine. Notice
the amount of black dust that is covering the car. The carbon fiber brakes can
be used for the Petit Le Mans in America and the 24 Hours of Le Mans in France.
However, they are not allowed at the 24 Hours of Daytona.
<% Set Ad = Application("Ad") %> <% arrTags = Array("ad.size.promo", "ad.border.0", "site.corvettemagazine") %>
<% = Ad.GetAd(Response, arrTags, Null ) %>