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.
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.
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.