What are my chances of getting a new supercharged Chevrolet Corvette ZR1 coupe this year?
–E.S., Chicago A: Not very good, even if you’re related to a Chevrolet dealership owner. The approximately 600-horsepower ZR1 goes into production this summer and it’s expected that only about 2,000 will be built annually. The ZR1 will be the most powerful production car Corvette has ever made and thus will be in huge demand and the object of much media attention. It’s speculated that the car will cost about $100,000, but buyers should be prepared to pay more than its list price. Chevy has no control over what its dealers charge for a ZR1, but it might do something to discourage speculators from buying a ZR1 and then “flipping” the car for a tidy profit. Note that the 600-horsepower Dodge Viper SRT10 coupe (Dec. 10 AutoTimes) lists at $83,895, although it lacks the Cor-vette’s wide sales acceptance or long, colorful history. Q: I own a 2006 Toyota Highlander V-6 SUV with all-wheel drive. It’s only been driven 6,700 miles, but I’m thinking about buying a 2008 Highlander Limited hybrid.
