The automotive world is built on tons of various technologies. Sometimes though, a carmaker wanted to adopt a certain technology, but it turned out to be too advanced for its time. General Motors once wanted to incorporate Active Suspension technology to its 1990 Chevrolet Corvette ZR1. So, GM started a project and built two dozen Corvette ZR1 Active Suspension prototypes. While these prototypes were eventually cancelled, one of them is now looking for a new owner at Hemmings.

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ZR1 Package Not Enough For 1990 Corvette

1990 Chevrolet Corvette ZR1 Active Suspension V8 engine
Via Hemmings

As a model gets older, it loses its appeal. To make their older cars (of the same generation) more appealing, carmakers typically offer souped-up version. Chevrolet introduced the fourth generation of the Corvette (C4) in 1983. By 1990, the Corvette C4 was already a seven year-old machine. For the model year, Chevrolet introduced the ZR1, which featured a Lotus-tuned 5.7-liter V8 offering 375 hp of max output and 370 lb-ft of peak torque.

While the Corvette C4 ZR1 is more powerful and has a wider rear track and larger tires than a standard Vette, it features the regular Corvette’s FX3/Z51 performance suspension, adjustable dampers and sport-tuned springs, and thicker rear anti-roll bar. But GM knew more can be done, so it launched a $28-million project in cooperation with Lotus.

A Technology 10 Years Ahead Of Its Time

1990 Chevrolet Corvette ZR1 Active Suspension quarter rear
Via Hemmings

GM sent 25 units of the 1990 Corvette ZR1 to Lotus’ vaunted Engineering Department in Bowling Greene to be experimented with a then-novel active suspension system it was developing with its partner. This intelligent active suspension system could adapt to road conditions, improve lateral handling and enhance corner balancing.

The new system employs hydraulic-controlled dampers and a Delco computer system that could nearly instantaneously react to bumps in the road as well as firm up the suspension in corners using lateral g-meters, thereby counteracting body roll. The prototypes were tested in Germany and in Daytona, where they sped at an average of 175 mph.

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Nonetheless, the project met some problems, including excessive heat and durability issues. Moreover, the on-wheel sensors (accelerometers) interfered with the sensitive suspension actuators. This was eventually solved, but a decade later, making the 1990 Corvette ZR1 Active Suspension prototype 10 years ahead of its time.

One Of Four Prototypes Now On Sale

1990 Chevrolet Corvette ZR1 Active Suspension quarter front
Via Hemmings

According to the listing, the black 1990 Corvette ZR1 Active Suspension prototype is one of the only four remaining experimental models. While in 1990, a production 1990 Corvette ZR1 with Active Suspension would cost around $150,000, this still operational prototype on sale at Hemmings is only priced at $89,500.

Source: Hemmings