ALMS Chevrolet Corvette C5-R GTS/GT1

In 1997 Katech began development on the C5-R race engine for General Motors.  The engine was originally a 6.0L engine, but it became apparent very early on that a larger engine was needed to compete with the Viper’s V10.  A big block engine was considered, but quickly thrown out the window.  A 7.0L engine was developed and became the standard for the rest of the C5-R’s life.  The C5-R made its first debut at the 24 hours of Daytona in 1999 and with the power from a Katech built engine, the C5-R team completed its first race an astounding 2nd in class.  It dominated the GTS/GT1 class until it was replaced by the C6.R in 2005.

Accomplishments

All accomplishments are by Corvette Racing unless otherwise noted

• 2000

• Petit Le Mans – First in class

• 2001

• 24 Hours of Le Mans – First & second in class
• 24 Hours of Daytona – First & Second overall
• Petit Le Mans – First in class
• ALMS Manufacturer’s Championship

• 2002

• 12 Hours of Sebring – First in class
• Petit Le Mans – First in class
• ALMS Manufacturer’s Championship
• ALMS Driver’s Championship

• 2003

• 12 Hours of Sebring – First in class
• ALMS Manufacturer’s Championship
• ALMS Driver’s Championship

• 2004

• 12 Hours of Sebring – First in class
• Petit Le Mans – First in class
• ALMS Manufacturer’s Championship
• ALMS Driver’s Championship

• 2005

• 24 Hours of Zolder – First in class (Selleslagh Racing Team)

• 2006

• 24 Hours of Zolder – First in class (Selleslagh Racing Team)

Katech’s C5-R Coverage on Speedvision – Le Mans 2001