THIS IS THE FASTEST CORVETTE TO EVER CLIMB PIKES PEAK

For anyone who has driven to the summit of Colorado’s most famous fourteener, the bravery on display during the Pikes Peak International Hill Climb becomes immediately apparent. The 12.42 mile course gains 4,720 feet of elevation during its 156 grueling turns and hairpins, as sheer cliffs dot either side of the roadway. It’s a daunting drive at 25 mph, much the less at a serious multiple of that. That said, we don’t think there’s a better way to make the journey up the mountain than in the fastest Corvette to ever compete in the event.

The Chevrolet Corvette in question is this 2017 C7 Z06 model, which is currently being offered for sale by the folks over at Bring A Trailer. Built and raced by pro driver Robb Holland to compete in the 2017 iteration of the race, this Z06 qualified to run in the TA1 Class. By completing the often-deadly climb in a time of just 10:55.166, Holland’s Vette became the fastest of its breed in Pikes Peak history, while also claiming 17th place overall.

In order to lay down such an impressive time, you need a serious piece of hardware. This Chevrolet Corvette isn’t like your grandfathers, as it is jam packed with race-grade parts. Under the hood sits a familiar 6.2L LT4 V8 engine, which now features a Katech Stage 3 E85 kit. That brings the total output up to 744 horsepower, with that power running through the standard eight-speed automatic gearbox.

Much of the bodywork has been replaced with pre-impregnated carbon fiber components, including that massive APR Performance dual element wing. Even the suspension system got a major overhaul, now featuring four-way JRZ dampers and AMT spherical bearing control arms. Other track-ready elements such as a Cartek fire suppression system, an OMP Motorsport HTE-R carbon fiber racing seat, and a full-racing cage bring some added safety to the racer’s interior.

This Elkhart Lake Blue Metallic Z06 is one of the coolest Chevrolet Corvettes we’ve seen in a while. Thanks to its racing pedigree, we’re willing to bet that it finds a new home without much trouble. That said, we’d love to see this Corvette make a return to Pikes Peak at some point, even if it isn’t there to race.