The hype surrounding the 2023 Corvette Z06 C8 is not nearly coming to an end. The fans have been expecting this track version with utter impatience, and Chevrolet made it worthwhile. The eighth generation of the Z06 delivers magnificently in terms of power, performance, and design. With the sharp exterior, customizable interior, and some outstanding specs, the new Chevy is all we wanted it to be.

But how much do you know about the Z06 C8? The Z06 is not a new nameplate. In fact, it has been around for quite some years, paving the path for the track-ready model we know today. If we look back to the Corvette history, starting way back in 1963, there's a whole story to be told about the Z06 package.

If you want to hear more about the Chevy Corvette Z06 C8, keep reading. We provide a brief history of the nameplate, reviewing the four main generations that came with the Z06 package. You'll get a chance to brush up on your knowledge of the Z06 C8 before you consider making it part of your collection and head to test it out.

RELATED: This Is Why The New Corvette C8 Z06 Might be the Best Yet

1963 Corvette C2 Z06

The 1963 Corvette 706.
Via: GM Media

It all started in 1963 when the first Z06 package came to be. Chevrolet introduced a comprehensive trim that doubled the price of the Corvette and offered more features for the track. The first Z06 package included the L84 5.4-liter V8 engine with 360 horsepower, a four-speed manual transmission, an advanced fuel injection system, and much more.

Only 199 second-generation Corvettes were made in 1963. Nonetheless, they were super popular and continue to be even today. If you want to buy the C2 Z06, you need to wait for auctions and save more than a few greens.

2001 Corvette C5 Z06

The 2001 Corvette Z06.
Via: Mecum Auctions

The big fans of the Z06 package had to wait until 2001 to see the new version. It was only then that the Chevrolet reintroduced it on the fifth generation of the Corvette. Needless to say, engineers made the C5 perfect for racing, reducing the overall weight of the vehicle and making it ready to fire up the track.

With an LS6 version of the V8 engine from the third generation, the new Corvette could put out 385-hp. Sleek and compact, it was incredibly fast and enjoyable to ride. Plus, the Chevrolet reduced the initial price for the package, so the C5 Z06 became more affordable. However, if you want one today, you may have to spend around $50,000 to get it. The C5 Z06 Corvettes are not a rear find, but they do come with a high price tag.

2006 Corvette C6 Z06

Yellow 2006 Chevrolet Corvette Z06 - Front Quarter
Staffan Andersson/Wikimedia Commons

Naturally, things became even more interesting over the years. The next Z06 package came on the Corvette C6 in 2006. It was a big year for Chevrolet, considering they introduced a unique aluminum frame and an LS7 small-block engine. The improvement resulted in one of the best power-to-weight ratios at a time.

The Chevy C6 Z06 could run from 0 to 60 mph in under four seconds and develop a top speed of more than 190 mph. It was a little beast born for the track, lightweight, aesthetically pleasing, and able to produce 505-hp. Back in 2006, it was a perfect choice for anyone who wanted to have a vehicle that could make a Porsche sweat at a much lower price.

2015 Corvette C7 Z06

The 2015 Chevrolet Corvette Z06.
Via: GM Media

In 2015, the seventh generation of the Corvette Z06 saw the features of the modern era. The C7 Z06 came with a supercharged 6.2-liter V6 engine, an automatic transmission, and many other improvements. The exterior and interior design also got way better, offering more at less money compared to competitors.

The Chevy C7 Z06 developed monstrous 650-hp and could reach 60 mph at around 3.4 seconds. Buyers could customize it from engine specs to the interior, which explains the many different models of the same package available in the market today. The only bad news is that the Chevy C7 Z06 retained much of its initial price. To get one, you'll have to invest quite some money.

RELATED: Hear What Jay Leno Has To Say About The 2023 Chevy Corvette Z06

2023 Corvette C8 Z06

The 2023 Chevrolet Corvette Z06.
Via: Chevrolet Pressroom

Finally, Chevrolet has announced the eighth generation of the Corvette Z06, and we can't be more excited about it. If you look at the brief history of the model, it becomes clear that the 2023 Z06 C8 just had to be even better. Indeed, this track-ready model arrives with a 5.5-liter V8 engine that cranks up 670-hp at 8,400 rpm.

Chevrolet even claims the new Corvette can take you from 0 to 60 mph in 2.6 seconds. If this proves to be true, we'll put the C8 Z06 right beside the first-in-class supercars. By the looks of it, the new Chevy will steal hearts straight from production lines. We wrote about it excessively over the year, so you can find more information in our most recent articles.