Automotive
Just a couple of years ago, scoring a new Chevrolet Corvette Z06 was an uphill battle. Buyers were shelling out hefty dealer markups just to secure a build slot, and showroom models were unicorns. Fast forward to today, and the landscape looks dramatically different. Z06s are no longer flying off the lot — in fact, they’re piling up — and that’s turning into a major win for performance car shoppers.
Chevrolet’s own online inventory tracker shows a surprising 1,702 Z06 models currently sitting at dealerships across the country. That breaks down to 1,001 coupes and 700 convertibles, making the high-performance Z06 the most available Corvette variant right now. Compare that to 1,092 base Stingrays and just 873 E-Rays in stock, and it becomes clear that if you’re seeing a new Corvette on a lot, there’s a good chance it’s a Z06.
Several factors seem to be contributing to the sudden surplus. For one, the initial dealer markups scared off many early buyers, who were likely waiting for prices to cool. And they have. Plus, with the C8 Corvette undergoing a mid-cycle refresh, buyers may be holding out for the updated interior and new color choices that aren’t available on current 2024 and 2025 models. That includes the now-infamous “button wall” center console layout, which remains a controversial design element among enthusiasts.
Another big piece of the puzzle is the looming arrival of the Corvette ZR1 and rumored ZR1X. While the Z06’s naturally aspirated 5.5-liter flat-plane-crank V8 delivers a screaming 670 horsepower, the upcoming twin-turbocharged ZR1 will reportedly push as much as 1,064 hp. And for those chasing the extreme, the ZR1X is rumored to crank out a staggering 1,250 hp. It’s no wonder some buyers are choosing to wait.
But here’s the upside. For anyone who has dreamt of owning a Z06, there may never be a better time. Dealers are finally listing cars at or even below MSRP. Some are deeply discounted. One example, a Riptide Blue 1LZ coupe, is being advertised at $107,464 — that’s $12,000 off MSRP. In fact, there are currently at least 10 Z06s nationwide listed below the $110,000 mark, a sharp contrast to the wild $100K markups seen at launch.
Even the hardcore Z07 models, which add track-ready features like carbon-ceramic brakes, aggressive aero, and grippy tires, are seeing price cuts. The most affordable Z07-equipped Z06 is listed at $125,790, again $12,000 off sticker. There are eight Z07 builds under $140,000 available right now, making them more accessible than ever.
When you stack it up against the competition, the Z06 remains a performance bargain. A Porsche 911 GT3, for instance, starts at over $224,000 and often comes with its own dealer premiums. The Z06, even at full price, offers an exotic engine layout, track credentials, and head-turning styling at less than half the price.
Of course, that’s always been the Corvette’s calling card — performance per dollar that punches way above its weight. While the Z06 inventory may be a headache for dealers, it’s shaping up to be a dream scenario for buyers. Whether you’re chasing lap times or just want one of the most exciting V8-powered machines on the road, this might be your best shot yet.
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Mike Floyd is a finance executive by trade and a car enthusiast at heart. As a CFO with a keen eye for detail and strategy, Mike brings his analytical mindset to the automotive world, uncovering fresh insights and unique perspectives that go beyond the surface. His passion for cars—especially his favorite, the Porsche 911, fuels his contributions to Automotive Addicts, where he blends a love for performance and design with his professional precision. Whether he’s breaking down industry trends or spotlighting emerging innovations, Mike helps keep the site both sharp and forward-thinking.
