The 2023 Chevrolet Corvette Z06 debuted earlier this week with some spectacular options, together with probably the most highly effective naturally aspirated manufacturing V-8 ever. Engineering Defined host Jason Fenske gives a deep dive into this 5.5-liter V-8, and compares it to the outdated Z06’s supercharged engine.

Code-named LT6, the C8 Z06 engine produces 670 hp at 8,400 rpm and 460 lb-ft of torque at at 6,300 rpm. It additionally boasts double overhead cams, dry-sump lubrication, and a flat-plane crankshaft. It might additionally rev to eight,600 rpm, giving off a wail that is extra Italian supercar than American muscle whereas doing so.

The horsepower determine is outstanding as a result of it beats the 6.2-liter supercharged LT4 V-8 used within the previous-generation C7 Z06. That engine was bigger and boasted pressured induction, however maxed out at 650 hp (at 6,400 rpm).

A top-speed determine hasn’t been verified, however Chevy spokesman Trevor Thompkins informed Motor Authority that the 0-60 mph time shall be 2.6 seconds.

Granted, the LT4 had extra torque—650 lb-ft at 3,600 rpm—however Fenske famous within the video remark part that the distinction may be made up through gearing. The 2023 Z06 has a 5.56:1 final-drive ratio, in comparison with 2.41:1 for the earlier Z06.

Regardless, the LT6 V-8 is a powerful engineering achievement. Horsepower is essentially restricted by how a lot air may be crammed into an engine, and this one can solely absorb air at atmospheric stress, Fenske famous.

Fenske additionally factors out some fascinating particulars, just like the hole camshafts (to scale back inertia) and twin valve springs (for extra exact valve management). The cam lobes additionally act straight on the finger followers with no hydraulics, offering extra direct valve movement. Lack of hydraulics would usually require periodic adjustment of the valve lash (the area between the rocker arm and the highest of the valve stem), however Chevy eradicated the necessity for that with a precisely-engineered shim that is put in on the manufacturing facility, Fenske mentioned.

Chevy additionally put the direct gas injectors on the exhaust facet fairly than the consumption facet, which permits for bigger consumption valves and helps with emissions, Fenske mentioned. The consumption manifold was designed to account for Hemholtz Resonance. The time period describes waves of air stress that may trigger annoying sounds when a automotive window is rolled down or, on this case, maximize torque output.

The complete video has much more particulars and useful explanations of the engineering phrases, so it is positively price a watch.