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The upcoming Corvette ZR1 on the eighth-generation Corvette platform promises to be one of the quickest American performance cars ever after its unveiling in July 2025. However, the previous model is no slouch. Specifically, the Chevrolet Corvette ZR1 from the C7 generation is still the most powerful production Corvette ever, barring the horsepower figures of the upcoming ZR1. Still, even with enough power to unearth mountains and turn tires into an aerosol mist, the C7 ZR1 couldn’t outrun one other unhinged American supercar around the storied Nürburgring, the 2017 Dodge Viper ACR. 

The 2019 Chevrolet Corvette ZR1 couldn’t quite catch the might of the 2017 Dodge Viper ACR around the ‘ring

The 2019 Chevrolet Corvette ZR1 was the last swivel-eyed act of defiance in the seventh-generation Corvette lineup. Sure, the C7 Z06 boasted a chassis-twisting 650 horsepower and the same number in torque. However, the limited-run ZR1 summoned 755 horsepower courtesy of a volcanic 6.2L LT5 V8 and its 2.65L supercharger.

However, even with some serious power on tap, up to 950 lbs of downforce, bitey brakes, and massive 335mm rear tires, the C7 Chevrolet Corvette ZR1 couldn’t dethrone the fastest American supercar around the Nürburgring: the 2017 Dodge Viper ACR.

  • 2017 Dodge Viper ACR– 7:01.3
  • 2019 Chevrolet Corvette ZR1– 7:04
  • 2010 Dodge Viper ACR– 7:12.13
  • 2017 Chevrolet Corvette Z06– 7:13.90
  • 2017 Chevy Camaro ZL1 1LE– 7:16.04
2017 Dodge Viper ACR with Extreme Aero shows off its American supercar credentials that secured it a fast lap at the Nürburgring.
2017 Dodge Viper ACR with Extreme Aero | Stellantis

Now, I don’t have to tell you that setting class records and achieving the fastest possible lap time around the fabled “Green Hell” is a big deal for automakers. Car-making titans like Porsche, Jaguar, and Lamborghini make a point of sending their most cutting-edge performance cars up against the German circuit every year. 

However, when it comes to American performance cars, the 2017 Dodge Viper ACR managed a lap in 7:01.3, about 2.7 seconds quicker than the Corvette ZR1. No wonder, the 645-horsepower Viper ACR works in race car-esque handling dynamics and a massive, downforce-generating rear wing. It really is a track star with a license plate.

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Staff Writer

Erik Sherman

Erik Sherman joined the MotorBiscuit team as an Autos Writer in 2022. An admitted petrolhead and an avid motorcyclist, Erik has owned everything from classic cars to motorcycles to modern driver’s cars. Erik also has extensive experience with military and emergency vehicles, ranging from ambulances and fire engines to MRAPs and M-ATVs. Erik is an eager car and motorcycle reviewer with experience covering everything from sports cars to pontoon boats and jet skis.

Erik holds a Bachelor’s Degree in International Relations (IRG) from the University of Texas at Austin and has studied Chinese, Energy, and European Politics at the University of Glasgow in Scotland. Erik’s background is unorthodox; he is a United States Marine Corps (USMC) combat veteran, water survival practitioner, and a former firefighter/EMT. Additionally, Erik is a regular volunteer and former instructor with the American Red Cross (ARC).