By Dan Borg
When I first bought my 2023 C8 Stingray, I thought I’d reached the pinnacle of Corvette ownership. It was everything I’d wanted — mid-engine performance, exotic styling, and a driving experience that made every trip special. Then, unexpectedly, the opportunity came up for a 2024 Z06 — and that changed everything.
The Z06 had always been the dream. The flat-plane-crank LT6 with its 8,600 rpm redline, that Ferrari-like wail, and track-bred engineering made it impossible to resist. I ordered mine in December 2023, and on April 16, 2024, I took delivery at Humberview Chevrolet. Finished in Seawolf Grey Metallic with a 3LZ interior, black with red stitching, and two-tone red and black GT2 seats, the car strikes a perfect balance of menace and sophistication.
From the first start-up, I knew this wasn’t just another Corvette — it was a whole new level. The LT6 doesn’t just growl; it screams with purpose. The sound alone makes every drive an event.
Driving and First Impressions
From the first drive, I was blown away. The performance, handling, and sound are absolutely world-class. Everything about the car feels tight, deliberate, and engineered to thrill — yet it’s still easy to live with on the open road. It combines the best of American muscle with European finesse.
Putting on the Miles
I’ve never been one to let a car sit in the garage — cars like this are meant to be driven. Since taking delivery, I’ve already logged over 40,250 kilometres, with unforgettable road trips to Bowling Green, Kentucky, and Carlisle, Pennsylvania. One of the highlights was participating in the 30th Anniversary Corvette Caravan to Bowling Green, where I met so many incredible owners and enthusiasts. The sense of community among Corvette drivers is truly unmatched — everyone shares that same passion and pride.
Track Experience
Earlier this year, I took the Z06 to Canadian Tire Motorsport Park (Mosport) for a track day with my brother-in-law, Mark, who happens to be a Porsche instructor. We joined the Porsche Club for the event, and I managed to put in about 50 to 60 laps. It was an unforgettable experience. The Z06 handled beautifully — composed, responsive, and incredibly capable through every corner. On the straights, it held its own — and even outperformed — several GT3s. Watching it perform in that environment confirmed just how special this car really is.
Personal Touches and Modifications
As much as I love the Z06 in its stock form, I couldn’t resist adding a few personal touches to make it truly mine. Inside, I installed aftermarket carbon fiber interior pieces, adding a subtle yet striking finish to the cabin. Up front, I added the Z07-style front splitter, which gives the car a more aggressive stance and improved aerodynamic balance.
Under the hood, I made a few performance upgrades to enhance the LT6’s already-impressive breathing. These include 91-millimeter Soler throttle bodies, an Eventuri cold air intake, and a Soler throttle controller — all working together to sharpen throttle response and amplify that intoxicating flat-plane-crank soundtrack. The combination feels fantastic — smoother, quicker, and even more responsive when you dip into the throttle.
Reflections
What I love most about the Z06 is its handling and precision. Every input feels direct, every corner feels alive. It’s a driver’s car through and through. If there’s one thing I wish I had, it’s the Z07 package, which wasn’t available when I placed my order. Still, this car has exceeded every expectation — and then some.
Owning the 2024 Corvette Z06 has been more than just about performance; it’s about the experiences and the connections it’s created. From road trips and caravans to track days and meetups, this car has already given me memories that will last a lifetime.
And with every kilometre, it keeps reminding me — this is what living the dream feels like.
