2007 SEMA Show
What it Is
Jay Leno’s E85-powered Z06-inspired C6RS Corvette – SEMA Show:
He might be a funny man, but when it comes to cars Jay Leno rarely jokes, even when he builds an E85-powered C65RS Corvette. Debuted at the 2007 SEMA Automotive Aftermarket Show, this ‘Vette is like a big, corn-fed Iowa farm boy: Big and beefy – to the tune of 600 horsepower – yet surprisingly nimble when it’s time to bust a move to the dinner table.
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Why it Matters
For automotive enthusiasts who live in the Iowa and want to drive fast while supporting local farm subsidies, this vehicle does the trick. That’s right: give back to the farm while you drive down the Interstate, and keep America strong, bubba! Seriously, this Corvette is sort of a continuation of Leno’s efforts to build a corn-burning super car. Last year at SEMA, he debuted the EcoJet, another corn-fed wonder that was much cooler to behold. Perhaps this is an extension of that dream, or maybe not – but we do like the 600 ponies. Â
What’s Under the Hood
Powered by a custom, 8.2-liter V-8 that makes around 600 horsepower and 585 lb.-ft. of torque, the C6RS offers stock LS7 cylinder heads, intake system and dry-sump oiling system but also gets significant custom work. That includes the fuel system and engine control computer, which were modified to accommodate E85 fuel. Also unique is the six-speed transmission, which was revised to meet the power upgrade. The 18-inch front wheels and 19-inch rear wheels ride on Michelin P295/30ZR18 and P345/30ZR19 tires, respectively. Along with Pratt & Miller, Leno and his team also added a custom DeWitt high-capacity radiator, carbon-fiber ram-air induction system, Brembo brakes, and more.Â