Few automakers have a performance legacy as recognizable as Chevrolet. From the iconic Corvette and Camaro to today’s electrified performance models, Chevy has spent generations proving that exhilarating speed comes in many forms.
If you are searching for fast Chevrolet cars near Wilmington, Illinois, Arnie Bauer Chevrolet can help you find a vehicle that matches your performance goals, driving preferences, and budget. Whether you want a new Corvette, a pre-owned Camaro, or an electric vehicle with instant acceleration, there is a fast Chevy built for the exact experience you have in mind.
What Is the Fastest Chevrolet Car?
The Chevrolet Corvette sits at the top of the brand’s performance lineup. However, Corvette is not a single performance level. The C8 lineup includes several distinct models, each offering a unique combination of acceleration, handling, horsepower, and everyday drivability.
Chevrolet Corvette Stingray
The Corvette Stingray is the entry point into Chevrolet’s mid-engine sports car lineup, but its performance is anything but ordinary. With up to 495 horsepower from its 6.2-liter V8 engine, the Stingray delivers the perfect balance for Illinois drivers: serious speed, responsive handling, head-turning design, and enough practicality to enjoy beyond special occasions. It is an excellent choice for weekend drives through Grundy County, summer road trips, and everyday cruising.
Chevrolet Corvette E-Ray
The Corvette E-Ray combines a 6.2-liter V8 engine with an electric front-drive unit to produce a combined 655 horsepower. Its electrified all-wheel-drive (eAWD) system helps the E-Ray launch from 0 to 60 mph in just 2.5 seconds. For performance drivers in Illinois, the eAWD system provides added traction and confidence in changing road conditions. (Note: The E-Ray is a performance hybrid, not a plug-in hybrid or fully electric vehicle).
Chevrolet Corvette Z06
Designed with the racetrack in mind, the Corvette Z06 takes a raw, hyper-focused approach to performance. Its naturally aspirated 5.5-liter flat-plane-crank LT6 V8 produces 670 horsepower and screams up to an 8,600 RPM redline. Featuring specialized aerodynamics, Magnetic Ride Control, and upgraded cooling systems, the Z06 is engineered for drivers who prioritize precision track handling and an aggressive exhaust note.
Chevrolet Corvette ZR1 & ZR1X
The Corvette ZR1 and hypercar-grade ZR1X represent the pinnacle of American supercar engineering.
- Corvette ZR1: Features a twin-turbocharged 5.5-liter LT7 V8 producing an astonishing 1,064 horsepower, achieving a track top speed of 233 mph.
- Corvette ZR1X: Pairs that twin-turbocharged V8 with an electrified front axle for an all-wheel-drive output of 1,250 combined horsepower, delivering supercar-level launch times.
Is the Chevrolet Camaro Still Available?
Chevrolet concluded production of the sixth-generation Camaro following the 2024 model year, meaning it is no longer available to order as a new current-production vehicle. However, pre-owned Camaros remain top contenders for drivers seeking classic muscle-car styling and rear-wheel-drive performance.
Depending on current inventory availability, pre-owned Camaro shoppers can explore several distinct trims:
- Camaro LT: Powered by a turbocharged four-cylinder or an available 3.6L V6, offering sports car styling and agile handling with everyday efficiency.
- Camaro LT1 & SS: Driven by a 6.2-liter V8 outputting 455 horsepower, delivering classic American V8 rumble, strong linear acceleration, and available manual or automatic transmissions.
- Camaro ZL1: The ultimate track-ready sixth-gen Camaro, featuring a supercharged 6.2-liter LT4 V8 generating 650 horsepower, track-tuned suspension, and Brembo® performance brakes.
Are Any Fast Chevrolet Vehicles Electric?
Yes. Instant electric torque has opened an exciting new era for Chevrolet performance.
The Chevrolet Blazer EV SS is a high-performance electric SUV that delivers supercar acceleration with daily utility. With Wide Open Watts (WOW) mode activated, the Blazer EV SS produces up to 615 horsepower and 650 lb.-ft. of torque, catapulting from 0 to 60 mph in an estimated 3.4 seconds. It is the ideal option for drivers who want thrilling speed without giving up passenger space, cargo flexibility, or all-weather capability.
What to Inspect When Buying a Pre-Owned Performance Vehicle
A high-performance car requires a more detailed evaluation than a standard commuter vehicle. Before purchasing a pre-owned Corvette or Camaro, always ensure you or your dealer review:
- Detailed Vehicle History: Verify routine service records and check for prior collision history via a CARFAX® report.
- Aftermarket Modifications: Identify whether aftermarket engine tunes, bolt-on parts, or exhaust modifications were professionally installed, as improperly installed modifications can impact reliability or remaining warranty coverage.
- Brake & Tire Wear: Performance tires and carbon-ceramic or multi-piston brakes experience unique wear patterns. Ensure adequate tread depth and rotor life remain.
- Pre-Purchase Inspection: Choose a dealership with GM-certified technicians capable of inspecting track wear, suspension bushings, fluid conditions, and overall mechanical integrity.
Don’t See the Exact Vehicle You Want? We Acquire It for You!
At Arnie Bauer Chevrolet, our available inventory changes quickly—especially when it comes to rare Corvette allocations, low-mileage Camaros, or specialty EV performance trims. If we do not currently have your dream car on our lot, our search doesn’t stop there.
We offer complete vehicle procurement services tailored to your exact specifications:
1. Custom Factory Orders (New Chevy Models)
When ordering is open for eligible new Chevrolet models (including Corvette, Blazer EV SS, and Silverado performance trims), our team assists you in building your vehicle straight from the factory. Select your exact interior finish, exterior paint, performance package, and gearing choices for direct priority production.
2. Extensive Dealer & Auction Sourcing (Pre-Owned Performance)
Looking for a specific pre-owned Camaro ZL1, a manual-transmission SS, or a low-mileage Corvette trim? We leverage our extensive dealer network and search wholesale dealer auctions on your behalf to find, acquire, and bring the exact vehicle right to our Wilmington showroom. Contact us today to discuss your options and timeline.
Visit Arnie Bauer Chevrolet in Wilmington, IL
Ready to experience Chevrolet performance firsthand? We invite you to visit Arnie Bauer Chevrolet at 901 E. Baltimore Street in Wilmington, IL. Stop in today to explore our current selection of new and pre-owned performance models, take a test drive, and speak with our team.
If we don’t have the exact new or used vehicle you are looking for on our lot, let us know—we will custom build it or locate and acquire it through our nationwide network!
Frequently Asked Questions About Fast Chevrolet Cars
What is the fastest Chevrolet car?
The Corvette ZR1 and ZR1X represent the pinnacle of Chevrolet performance. The 1,064-hp ZR1 reaches track speeds up to 233 mph, while the 1,250-hp electrified all-wheel-drive ZR1X delivers blistering sub-2-second 0-60 mph launch performance.
Can I still buy a new Chevrolet Camaro?
No. Production of the sixth-generation Camaro ended after the 2024 model year. However, Arnie Bauer Chevrolet can help locate specific pre-owned Camaro models across our regional network and wholesale auctions.
Can Arnie Bauer Chevrolet order a custom Corvette?
Yes. Subject to factory production allocations and model availability, our team can guide you through a custom order build for eligible new Corvette models.
What if the dealership doesn’t have the specific car or trim I want in stock?
If it’s not on our lot, we can acquire it. We can set up a new vehicle custom order directly with Chevrolet or search nationwide dealer auctions to source the exact pre-owned trim, color, and option package you desire.
Where is Arnie Bauer Chevrolet located?
We are located at 901 E. Baltimore Street, Wilmington, IL 60481, serving performance car enthusiasts across Wilmington, Diamond, Coal City, Morris, and Grundy County.
Connect with us
