This 1988 Chevrolet Corvette holds significance in the Corvette community as one of two remaining factory “King of the Hill” ZR-1 prototypes. Originally one of 25 produced in July 1987, it marked the revival of the ZR-1 name last used in 1970.
It served as a developmental test vehicle at Lotus Cars’ Hethel facility in England for engine calibration and emissions certification before undergoing trials at General Motors’ Milford Proving Grounds.
Despite being slated for destruction in 1990 as per prototype protocol, it was instead abandoned in a scrapyard. Eventually, it was rediscovered and restored. While its original frame and much of its body were intact, repairs were needed, including sourcing parts from a 1989 pre-production Corvette.
Powered by the iconic LT5 engine, a 5.7L 32-valve DOHC all-aluminum V-8 developed by Lotus and produced by Mercury Marine, this prototype features a refined Phase II version. Paired with a ZF 6-speed manual transmission, it embodies the essence of the ZR1 legacy.
Photo Source: Cars & Bids
