Thundering Thursday VOL 12-48 * Nürburgring Expert Says ZR1 Left 10 Seconds on the Track
Corvette ZR1 and ZR1X Stun at the
Nürburgring – But There’s More in the Tank!
Video Credit: Misha Charoudin
Chevrolet made waves this week with official Nürburgring lap times for the new Corvette ZR1 and ZR1X. The ZR1 ran an incredible 6:50.763, while the ZR1X edged ahead with a 6:49.275 — both quicker than the much more expensive Mustang GTD.
But Nürburgring YouTuber and expert racer Mikhael “Misha” Charoudin says the ZR1 could have gone even faster, by as much as 10 seconds. His detailed analysis of the lap shows conservative driving lines and slower exits that left speed on the table. Why? GM used engineers, not experienced Nürburgring pro drivers, for the official lap.
According to Misha, with a seasoned Nürburgring racer behind the wheel, the ZR1 could easily threaten the all-time leaderboard, possibly landing just behind the AMG-One.
He also notes the ZR1’s blistering pace is an engineering triumph with more to give.
This isn’t just a win, it’s a warning shot. And the Corvette hasn’t shown all its cards yet.
Win a 2026 Corvette ZR1 with ZTK!
The Chip Miller Amyloidosis Foundation will offer one lucky winner the opportunity to take home a 2026 Corvette ZR1 with the ZTK Performance Package! The King of the Hill returns with the most powerful V8 ever produced in America and its the fastest Corvette ever with an official top speed of 233 mph! The ZR1 features a 5.5L twin-turbocharged DOHC flat-plane crank which delivers 1,064 horsepower and 828 lb-ft of torque! The ZR1 will be ordered in Sebring Orange Metallic with a 3LZ Jet Black Interior and it will be given away in October 2025.
Thundering Thursday subscribers will receive 50% Bonus Entries so start collecting your tickets today by Clicking Here.
In the Valley of the Shadow: The Cost of Walking with Death, a solo art show featuring the extensive collection of military paintings by renowned artist Brian Fox exploring the human condition.
This emotionally charged work honors American heroes from World War II, Korea, Vietnam, and modern-day conflicts. Understanding that our freedoms are preserved by the bravery and dedication of combat veterans, Brian Fox has commemorated their sacrifices in vivid and unforgettable detail.
Collect the prints:
https://riversideartgallery.artstorefronts.com/brian-fox
Brian’s website:
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Paul’s 2012 Camaro SS
After finding the car my wife wanted in 2019 it was time to find a fun car for myself.
In early 2022 I started looking at Corvettes and Camaros on the internet. One day I received an alert about a 2012 Camaro 2SS Coupe with RS Package, 20” Midnight Silver Painted Wheels, Brembo Brakes, High Intensity headlamps with Halo Ring, black exterior and interior. Low mileage, price was good and it was close. That’s a nice car!
The next day I was still looking at the car on the internet my wife said let’s go look at the car. That afternoon we drove the car home.
We attend several cars and coffee each month with friends and have made several trips to the Palm Springs area and Arizona to visit other friends.
I really enjoy the car.
Paul M.
At Auction This Week
1967 Convertible
Beautiful, and rare big block!
Marina Blue w/Bright Blue Interior, L71 427/435hp, 4-Speed Manual
This is an exceptionally rare and beautifully restored 1967 L71 Corvette—one of the most coveted configurations ever produced during the mid-year era. Finished in stunning Marina Blue with a Bright Blue interior, this car represents the pinnacle of big-block Corvette performance and factory-option desirability.
Key Factory Options & Features:
NCRS Top Flight Award Winner
Frame-Off Restoration To Like Original Specifications
Documented With The Tank Sticker, Car Shipper, And Invoice
All Three Documents Contained Together In Frame
M21 Close Ratio 4-Speed Manual Transmission
Al Grenning CCAS Engine Pad Certification
L71 427/435 HP V-8 Engine
1 Of Only 267 Corvettes Produced With,
J56 Heavy-Duty Power Brakes In 1967
F41 Special Suspension
Side Mount Exhaust System
4.11 Positraction Rear End
Headrest Seats
Tinted Glass
AM/FM Radio
Rally Wheels w/ Whitewall Bias-Ply Tires
Dual Tops: Matching Blue Painted Hardtop & Black Soft Top
This Corvette has undergone a meticulous frame-off restoration to factory specs and still retains its original, numbers-matching engine. Accompanying the car is highly sought-after factory documentation, including the Tank Sticker and Car Shipper, verifying its pedigree and originality.
Call or message today to see this in person or to make an offer!
See On Mecum’s Site By Clicking Here
1963 Chevy Impala 409 Convertible
Complete and correct frame-off restored Impala
Silver Blue w/Blue interior, 409/340hp, 4-speed Manual
Previously part of the renowned Don Fezell collection.
“She’s Real Fine, My 409!” The Beach Boys certainly knew what they were talking about back in the early ’60’s. And a car similar to this ’63 Impala could have been the inspiration for the song!
From front to back, top to bottom, this stunning Silver Blue Impala featured here is one of the finest you will ever see! It’s equipped with a #’s matching 409ci engine and is optioned with the highly desirable and sought-after 4-speed manual transmission, as well as power steering, power soft top, and a Posi-Traction rear end! The body is arrow straight, and the beautiful Silver Blue paint sparkles like a diamond!
It’s also a fantastic running and driving car! It’s smooth as silk cruising down the highway. But press the pedal down, and she goes!! Plus, there’s plenty of room for friends and family!
Call or message today to see this in person or to make an offer!
See On Mecum’s Site By Clicking Here
1961 Fuel Injected Convertible
Beautiful, frame-off restoration
Tuxedo Black w/Red interior 283/315hp, 4-speed
If you were in the market for the “ultimate” Corvette back in ’61, the car featured here might have been at or near the top of your list!
The car has undergone an extensive frame-off restoration and is absolutely beautiful in its highly sought-after color combination of Tuxedo Black w/Red interior. It’s equipped with the #’s matching 283/315hp fuel injected engine, backed up to a 4-speed manual transmission.
Additional options include both hard and soft tops. This fantastic ’61 is also an N.C.R.S. Top Flight Award winner!
Call or message today to see this in person!
View On Hemmings By Clicking Here
Experience the Corvette Mike Difference
In the ever-evolving vintage car market, uncertainty is part of the game. While online auctions might appear convenient, they often leave both buyers and sellers at the mercy of chance. For almost 44 years, Corvette Mike has set the standard with unmatched, personalized service—making every transaction as enjoyable as it is successful.
No matter where you are in the world, if you own a remarkable vintage car and are considering selling, let Corvette Mike handle it with care and expertise. Our dedicated approach guarantees a smooth and satisfying experience. And for those on the lookout for that elusive classic, we provide expert guidance to help you make informed decisions while savoring the excitement of the hunt.
Reach out by phone (714-630-0700) or email (Troy@CorvetteMike.Com) today, and discover how a seasoned veteran of the vintage car scene can transform your buying or selling journey into a truly memorable adventure.
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