Chevrolet Corvette ZR1X Sets Speed Records, Paint Issues Emerge

Car and Driver tested the Chevrolet Corvette ZR1X, recording a 0‑60 mph time of 1.8 seconds, 0‑100 mph in 3.7 seconds and a quarter‑mile in 8.9 seconds with a top speed of about 249 km/h. These figures marginally beat rival hypercars such as the Bugatti Chiron in short‑run performance, and the ZR1X is slated for a Pikes Peak attempt.

Separate owners have reported that the car’s paint begins to chip or flake once speeds exceed roughly 290 km/h. The defect is linked to the high‑downforce ZTK Performance Package, whose aerodynamic elements place intense pressure on the bodywork. Chevrolet has responded by offering free repainting for affected owners, though no design changes have been announced.

The combination of record‑setting acceleration and the emerging high‑speed paint issue highlights both the engineering ambition and the practical challenges of the high‑performance ZR1X.