In 1990, the "King of the Hill" Corvette: the ZR-1 (RPO ZR1) was introduced.  The ZR-1's main feature was the LT5, a highly modified version of the 350 V8, and a distinctively wider back end and square tail lamps.  Lotus, help with the development, and was built by Mercury Marine. LT5 features a very modern dual overhead cam, 32 valve design which put out a whooping 375 bhp. The Corvette received a new 6-speed manual transmission, as well as air bags. The standard 350 V8 gained 5 bhp due to a slight increase in the compression ratio. The main problem was with the price many find it expensive. The ZR-1 cost nearly $59,000 compared to the base coupe priced at $32,000.

    Engines:
Coupe: 350 V8 250 bhp @ 4400 rpm, 350 lb-ft @ 3200 rpm.
Convertible: 350 V8 245 bhp @ 4000 rpm, 345 lb-ft @ 3200 rpm.
ZR-1: 350 V8 375 bhp @ 6000 rpm, 370 lb-ft @ 4800 rpm.