"This is what the founding fathers wanted us to be driving" says Jay Leno as he pulls up to a stoplight in his new 2009 Corvette ZR1. The new 638-hp supercharged Corvette is the latest edition to Jay Leno's Garage and we have the privilege of riding shotgun with late night's funny man as he puts the Corvette through its paces and points out the unique features in a style that only Leno can.

Jay gives us a walk-around the new Corvette while he discusses some of the finer points of the new Corvette like the 20-spoke 19"/20" wheels with Michelin Pilot Sport 2 tires, standard carbon ceramic drilled disc brakes, magnetic selective ride control as well as pointing out the flares, vents and spoilers that are unique to the ZR1. He also touches on the story about the special clear coat that protects the carbon fiber - yes, Virginia it does cost $60,000/gallon.

One of the surprising aspects of the video is that Jay shows us that he owns VIN 001 - most thought that honor went to Chevy dealer Dave Ressler who paid $1 Million at Barrett-Jackson for the honor of owning VIN #001. Turns out there are three sets of Corvette ZR1 VINs - Ressler ownes one - and the one one of that unique set. The demo and dealer test Corvette ZR1 were produced under a separate VIN and then the production customer cars have their own VIN. Very interesting!

I love to listen to Jay talk about the Corvette while he's driving it. Just seeing him behind the wheel while talking about the amazing torque of the ZR1 then watching him floor it puts it all into perspective. Jay is a Corvette guy and listening to him talk about Corvettes, while driving the most it shows. This was a fun ride!

Source
Jay Leno's Garage

Related:
Barrett-Jackson 08: [VIDEO] 1st 2009 Corvette ZR1 Sold for $1 Million

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