Popular Mechanics has managed to snag a set of some of the most detailed photos yet of the still in development beastie, photos which spill some details on the heights the 2009 Corvette SS goes above even the current dragon slaying Z06.
PM's photos suggest a bulging carbon fiber hood, making room for the expected supercharger. It's commonly held the car's blown 6.2L V8 will produce in excess of 600bhp. That's 600 with a 6. We think it might go quickly. Power to weight is the key to speed, so with weight saving being a primary concern, it also appears carbon fiber forms the roof panel, a weight-trimming trick BMW utilized to great success with its Europe-only M3 CSL.
New wheels, each with five outboard and five inboard spokes, look to cut weight even further. Considering the diet the Z06 was put on, the new SS may find a stiff wind challenging. Only while sitting still, which likely won't be often. The pics also suggest a new rear 'aero lip' (...looks like a spoiler to us) to create some much needed downforce at high speeds. If the Z06 can hit 190+ with a mere 505bhp, we expect the SS will easily top 200 mph -- true supercar territory.
Some mystery remains, as camouflage obscures the actual width of the undoubtedly gargantuan rear tires. It also appears Michelin is winning or has won the right to provide the shoes for the new 'Vette, replacing the traditional Goodyears (we can hear the purists pained gasps... now).
The 2006 model C6 Z06 was reportedly an incredibly tricky little so-and-so to handle at the limit, with a chassis that was prone to let go with no mercy as soon as the driver's talent ran out. Tweaks to the 2007 model tamed some of the car's more dangerous idiosyncrasies and improved its handling characteristics. With an additional 100 hp tossed into the mix, it's anyone's guess what will be going on in the wheelwells to make sure it stays shine side up. The Corvette SS will most likely take its bow in 2009, but we could see it late next year. Expect more spy shots, specs and speculation on this ultimate Corvette over the coming months.