Sharper

The C6 was an evolution of the C5's hydroformed chassis — but shorter, narrower and finally free of pop-up headlights. The base LS2 made 400 horsepower; the later LS3 stretched that to 430.

The 2006 Z06 brought a 7.0L LS7 V8 making 505 horsepower in a magnesium-and-aluminum-intensive body. Three years later the 2009 ZR1 went further: a supercharged 6.2L LS9 producing 638 horsepower, carbon-ceramic brakes, and a $100k price tag.

The C6 also brought Corvette Racing its dominant GT1 and GT2 years — six straight Le Mans class wins between 2001 and 2012.