The Chevrolet Corvette ZR1, with its 1,064 horsepower engine, delivers performance previously reserved for far more expensive European supercars. Despite General Motors’ attempts to curb quick-profit resales by voiding warranties on cars flipped within 12 months, one buyer recently pocketed a staggering $70,000 by selling a nearly new model.
The Flip: Details of the Sale
A 2026 Corvette ZR1, with just five miles on the odometer, was listed on Bring a Trailer with an original sticker price of $220,745. The car features the comprehensive $27,350 ZTK Performance Track Package, including carbon ceramic brakes, upgraded suspension, and aggressive aerodynamic elements like a towering rear wing and front splitter. Finished in Jet Black with Edge Blue racing stripes and matching 20/21-inch forged wheels, the car’s aesthetic appeal adds to its desirability.
Interior and Specifications
Inside, the ZR1 boasts GT2 bucket seats trimmed in Jet Black Nappa leather with Santorini Blue stitching, complemented by Alcantara trim and a 14-speaker Bose audio system. The 2026 model introduces a cleaner cockpit layout with a 6.6-inch display alongside the central 14-inch digital cluster, addressing criticisms of the earlier C8’s “wall of buttons.”
Market Dynamics and Profit Margin
Despite GM’s warranty policy, the ZR1 sold for $290,000 on Bring a Trailer, netting the original buyer a $70,000 profit. This demonstrates a strong demand for the high-performance Corvette, even with the risk of a voided warranty.
The Broader Context
The resale price raises questions about market forces and consumer willingness to pay premiums for exclusivity or immediate access. The hybrid ZR1X, offering even more power and all-wheel drive, is available at a lower MSRP ($205,400), yet this ZR1 still fetched a substantial profit. This suggests that availability, rather than pure performance, remains a key driver of resale value.
Conclusion
The $70,000 profit made on this Corvette ZR1 flip underscores the strong demand for high-performance vehicles, even when manufacturers attempt to control resale markets. The sale highlights the willingness of some buyers to pay premiums for immediate access, regardless of warranty implications
