6.6.2005
Corvette C6.R passes first Le Mans test with flying colors

Last weekend, Corvette Racing introduced its new C6.R race cars to Le Mans in a day of trouble-free testing on the Circuit des 24 Heures. The extended test session provided valuable information on the new race cars for both Corvette Racing's six drivers and GM Racing engineers. Today's test was the only opportunity for the team to evaluate the new cars before the start of official practice and qualifying on June 15.

The No. 64 Compuware Corvette C6.R driven by Oliver Gavin, Olivier Beretta and Jan Magnussen ran a fast lap of 3:54.183, placing it fourth among the nine GT1 class cars on the course today. The No. 63 Compuware Corvette C6.R of Johnny O'Connell, Ron Fellows and Max Papis completed the 13.6-kilometer circuit in 3:56.174, placing it sixth on the GT1 speed chart. The No. 63 Corvette ran a total of 91 laps, the most by a GT1 entry, and its sister car completed 89 laps. Neither car had any mechanical issues as the team evaluated tires, brakes, shock absorbers and aerodynamic settings.

Corvette Racing came to the Le Mans test with a long to-do list that included evaluating brakes and tires. Although the nine-hour test was cut short by light rain in the final 90 minutes, the team still worked its way through most of the items.

Practice and qualifying for the 24 Hours of Le Mans is scheduled on June 15-16. The race begins at 16:00 h on June 18.

24 Hours of Le Mans Test Day Summary, GT1 Class: