At the Barrett-Jackson auction in Scottsdale, the first production unit of the Corvette ZR1 was sold for $3.7 million—21 times its original price.
Boasting 1,064 horsepower under the hood, this American hypercar is a true beast on wheels. Behind this record-breaking purchase is Rick Hendrick, a well-known figure in NASCAR and a passionate automobile enthusiast.
Read more:
- With its 93% efficiency, this electric motor is the most popular on the market but there are better options
- Compact but incredibly fast: nearly 200 HP on a city chassis turns this vehicle into a rocket
A machine that exceeds all expectations
The 2025 Chevrolet Corvette ZR1 is not just a car—it’s a masterpiece of engineering. Its 5.5-liter LT7 twin-turbo V8 engine delivers an astounding 1,064 horsepower, capable of competing with icons like the Lamborghini Revuelto and Ferrari SF90 Stradale. It also features an impressive aerodynamic package, generating up to 1,200 pounds of downforce for unmatched handling. This level of performance is comparable to WEC or NASCAR machines. What’s even more impressive is its starting price: $175,000. While this figure excludes inevitable dealership markups, it’s remarkably affordable for a car of this caliber. For Rick Hendrick, however, this ZR1 came with a much higher price tag: $3.7 million. The steep premium reflects its status as the first production model, a coveted distinction for collectors.
Rick hendrick: A regular at Corvette auctions
This isn’t Rick Hendrick’s first rodeo. Over the years, he has consistently secured the first examples of Corvette C8 models at auction. From the Z06 in 2022 to the E-Ray in 2023, and now the ZR1, his purchases often exceed $3 million. While this highlights his passion for Corvettes, some fans are beginning to voice their frustration. Social media reactions capture the sentiment:
- “It’s the same story every year. Hendrick buys the first Corvette. Can we shake it up a bit?”
- “Good cause or not, it’s getting a little predictable.”
Despite the grumbles, it’s important to recognize the positive impact of these purchases. Every dollar spent by Hendrick at these auctions goes to charity. This year, the $3.7 million will benefit the American Red Cross to support victims of recent hurricanes and wildfires.
A legacy of passion and philanthropy
With over 100 Corvettes in his collection, Rick Hendrick isn’t just amassing cars—he’s building a legacy that combines automotive passion with meaningful philanthropy. His contributions to Barrett-Jackson auctions have raised nearly $13 million for various causes, a fact even his critics can’t overlook. As for the Corvette ZR1, it’s unlikely to ever hit the road. Instead, it will join Hendrick’s impressive collection as another gem in a treasure trove of automotive history. For Hendrick, it’s about more than prestige. Each car tells a story, and the 2025 ZR1 embodies both automotive excellence and the generosity of a man whose passion extends far beyond the racetrack.
This article highlights Rick Hendrick’s latest acquisition, a 2025 Chevrolet Corvette ZR1 auctioned for $3.7 million. Combining incredible technical features with philanthropic impact, this car represents much more than performance—it’s a testament to lasting commitment in the automotive world.
Images: © Barrett-Jackson
