In the adrenaline-fueled world of drag racing, few names resonate quite like Vengeance Racing. This powerhouse shop has built a reputation for crafting jaw-dropping, record-shattering modern performance machines that redefine the limits of speed and power. Their latest masterpiece—a 3,000-horsepower, twin-turbo 2016 C7 Corvette Z06 — stands as a demonstration of their unwavering dedication to precision, performance, and the relentless pursuit of greatness.
A Mission Born of Frustration
The story of this awe-inspiring twin-turbo C7 Z06 begins with a tale of frustration and unfulfilled potential. Anthony Powell, the car’s owner, had originally entrusted his Corvette to another shop much closer to home, hoping they could unlock its true potential and push it to the next level. As the delays mounted and doubts crept in about their ability to meet his lofty power goals, Anthony knew he had to make a change. That’s when he turned to the team at Vengeance Racing.
With Veangeance Racing’s proven track record of delivering high-performance monsters and their intimate knowledge of the C7 platform, Anthony knew his car was in the right hands. This made the trip from Anthony’s home state of California, all the way to Georgia worthwhile. The mission was clear: not only to surpass the previous C7 Corvette quarter-mile record set by Vengeance Racing themselves several years ago (running a 7.32@197mph in a 4200lb street driven C7), but to push the boundaries of what this iconic platform was capable of.
The Heart of the Beast
At the core of this record-hunting machine lies a 441 cubic-inch LT built by Late Model Engines to withstand 3,000-plus horsepower and 9,000rpm. With a Noonan billet block, an all-aluminum powerhouse renowned for its durability and ability to withstand massive amounts of boost. Paired with a Winberg billet crankshaft, GRP aluminum rods, and Diamond Custom pistons, the engine’s bottom end is built to withstand in excess of the extreme stresses of it’s current 3,000 horsepower output.
The top end is equally impressive, featuring a custom-spec solid roller camshaft, and a Jesel valvetrain setup that ensures precise operation even at heart-pounding RPMs. The cylinder heads are LME’s LT race cylinder heads that utilize CID castings paired with LME’s proprietary CNC porting program. With copper head gaskets and the cylinder heads o-ringed providing a secure seal, the engine is fortified to handle the intense boost pressure of its twin-turbo setup.
A Dailey Engineering dry sump oiling system ensures consistent oil flow under the extreme conditions this Corvette will face. Its Stage IV pump guarantees no hiccups in lubrication, even during full-throttle launches that push the car to its limits.
Turbocharged Fury
To achieve its mind-boggling power output, this C7 relies on a pair of Forced Induction Garrett ultra-lightweight billet 88mm turbochargers. These turbos are designed for both efficiency and raw power, providing massive airflow without excessive lag. Paired with TurboSmart Gen V electronic power gates and a Motion Raceworks C02 system, the boost is precisely controlled to ensure consistent performance run after run.
The switch to twin turbos from the previous ProCharged setup highlights Vengeance’s strategic approach to maximizing horsepower while maintaining reliability. Methanol fuel, supplied by VP Racing, further enhances the car’s performance, allowing the engine to run cooler and produce more power without detonation.
Fueling the Fire
Feeding an engine capable of such extreme output requires a robust and precise fuel delivery system. This Corvette features an Aeromotive custom cog belt-driven mechanical fuel pump, high-flow microglass fuel filters, and a high-flow EFI regulator to keep the fuel pressure consistent. Methanol requires a lot of fuel flow to reach Anthony’s lofty power goals, which is why this 441 cubic-inch twin turbo C7 run 16 Fuel Tech injectors — 170 pound-per-hour primaries and 720 pound-per-hour secondaries—ensuring enough methanol reaches all eight cylinders under all conditions.
The system is tied together with Brown & Miller Racing Solutions AN lines and fittings, ensuring leak-free operation even under the high pressures of drag racing. Every component has been carefully selected and meticulously installed to ensure the engine never goes hungry, even when feeding on its insatiable appetite for 3,000 horsepower.
A Drivetrain Forged for Battle
Vengeance Racing turned to a custom-built drivetrain to handle the immense torque generated by the twin-turbo LT setup. At its core is an RPM Transmissions Ultimate Lock-Up TH400 paired with a 9-inch rear end. This robust transmission setup features a billet aluminum input drum, a superalloy main shaft, and a billet trans-brake valve body for precise launches. A billet multi-disk lock-up torque converter from M&M Transmissions ensures that power is transferred efficiently to the rear wheels.
Custom fabrication work was required to fit the drivetrain into the Corvette’s chassis. A large-diameter torque tube and Drive Shaft Shop Extreme Duty prop shaft were added for maximum strength, along with a Moser 9-inch center section fitted with 3.50 gears. This drivetrain was built with reliability in mind, ensuring that every horsepower makes its way to the track while still utilizing IRS.
The Brains Behind the Brawn
A build of this caliber requires a sophisticated engine management system, more than the stock PCM could ever handle, and Vengeance Racing spared no expense. At the heart of the setup is a FuelTech FT600 ECU, which controls everything from ignition timing to boost levels. FuelTech FT Spark Gen II coils ensure strong and consistent spark at high RPMs, while EGT sensors monitor exhaust temperatures to keep the engine running safely.
Additional components like a Motec PDM30 module and Rife Sensors provide detailed data and control over every system in the car, ensuring optimal performance during every pass. The team at Vengeance Racing can fine-tune every parameter, dialing in the perfect combination to unleash the car’s full potential.
Staying Planted
With so much power on tap, ensuring that the Corvette stays planted on the track is critical. Vengeance enlisted JSC Race Cars to fabricate a 25.3-certified roll cage, which not only provides safety but also adds much-needed rigidity to the chassis. A custom motor plate and mid-plate were added to support the engine, while a Cantu Racing tubular front cradle helps reduce weight.
Suspension upgrades include Menscer Motorsports coilovers and Innovative Racecraft travel limiters, which allow the team to fine-tune the car’s weight transfer for optimal traction. LG Motorsports components, such as solid differential mounts and a mono ball control arm kit, further enhance the car’s stability under load.
Stopping power is provided by a TBM Brakes drag race setup on all four corners, along with a Wilwood manual brake master cylinder. For added safety, the car is equipped with dual Stroud parachutes and a fire suppression system.
Wheels, Tires, and Aerodynamics
A car built for speed needs the right wheels and tires to put power to the ground. This twin-turbo C7 rolls on a set of Weld Wheels wrapped in Mickey Thompson 275 radial tires, chosen for their ability to handle extreme launches and deliver consistent performance.
Aerodynamics also plays a role in the car’s success. LG Motorsports contributed a custom carbon fiber hood and drag wing, which not only reduce weight but also improve airflow and downforce. Every detail has been carefully considered to minimize drag and maximize speed.
Breaking Records
On the dyno, this Corvette has already proven its potential, producing an incredible 2,679 rear-
wheel horsepower at only 44psi of boost bolted to a FuelTech Mainline Hub Dyno. There is more power on tap as the team plans to run 60-65psi on the track, but felt they had more than enough to get started dialing in the new powerhouse. Tuned to perfection on methanol, the car retains its factory dash and power windows, showcasing the versatility of the C7 platform even in a race-focused build.
The ultimate goal for Anthony and Vengeance Racing is to set a new quarter-mile record for the C7 Corvette platform with his twin-turbo C7. With the car’s combination of power, precision, and engineering, they’re confident that the record will fall spectacularly. As they prepare to unleash this beast on the drag strip, the anticipation is palpable.
A Team Effort
While the spotlight is often on the car itself, it’s important to recognize the team that made it all possible. Special thanks go out to Sean Parker, Jey Clegg and Jason Howe, whose expertise and dedication were instrumental in bringing this build to life. From the engine assembly to the final calibration, every aspect of the car was handled in-house at Vengeance Racing, except for the roll cage. Their attention to detail and commitment to quality shine through in every facet of this record-breaking machine.
The Legacy of Vengeance Racing
For years, Vengeance Racing has been at the forefront of GM performance, and this build solidifies their position as one of the premier names in the industry. More than just a car, this twin-turbo C7 Z06 represents the pinnacle of what’s possible when cutting-edge technology meets relentless determination.
As it heads to the drag strip, all eyes will be on Anthony’s twin-turbo monster. Whether it’s the thunderous roar of the 88mm turbos or the thrill of seeing a Corvette conquer the quarter-mile in record time, one thing is certain: this build is destined for greatness.
Stay tuned, because when Vengeance Racing unleashes this beast, history is sure to follow. The question on everyone’s mind: just how fast will it go? One thing’s for sure: with Vengeance Racing at the helm, the sky’s the limit.