Extreme exhaust heat caused this Corvette ZR1 to melt while maintaining an average speed of 173 MPH over a distance of 118 miles.
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People who drive regular cars often don’t realize how hot certain components can become at typical highway speeds. However, those who have experienced driving a high-performance car or motorcycle know that things can heat up significantly, risking melting parts or accidentally branding your skin. This was certainly the case for the owner of a C7 Chevrolet Corvette ZR1, who recently participated in the Big Bend Open Road Race and ended up with his white ‘Vette resembling a toasted marshmallow.
It’s understandable why, as owner John Anhalt posted on Facebook that he averaged 173.004 mph over 118 miles during several runs. Honestly, it’s surprising that the heat didn’t inflict more harm given those crazy speeds. This achievement granted Anhalt the record for the average speed in this wild Texas race.
Notably, he also reported a top speed of 213 mph.
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For some context, the BBORR spans from Fort Stockton, Texas, to Sanderson. Drivers race along U.S. Highway 285, which typically has a speed limit of 75 mph. However, the road is closed off during the event, transforming it into a closed course.
For a standard car, exhaust temperatures typically range from 300 to 500 degrees, but these numbers can rise significantly for performance vehicles. Therefore, it's easy to see how nearby materials, whether it's metal, fiberglass, or specialized composites, could suffer from prolonged heat exposure. While the ZR1 is designed for speed, the BBORR is exceptionally grueling. The previous record was held by another Chevrolet Corvette ZR1, owned by racing veteran Tom Whalen, who averaged 172.696 mph in 2013.
As expected, the new record-holder is a far cry from stock, and according to R&T, all components have been altered or upgraded, and it doesn’t have a traditional exhaust system. That might explain the new fiery appearance.
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Extreme exhaust heat caused this Corvette ZR1 to melt while maintaining an average speed of 173 MPH over a distance of 118 miles.
Some individuals choose to wrap their Corvettes, while others prefer to drive at high speeds to achieve that authentic flambeau paint look.