While we wait impatiently for the Corvette ZR1 to hit the Middle East, GM has released a filler in the shape of a track-focused ZO6 Carbon Edition.

Created to celebrate the 50th anniversary of its first Le Mans entry, the puckered up ’Vette gets a Magnetic Selective Ride Control system to keep body movements in check, as well as a set of Brembo carbon ceramics and 20-spoke wheels – 19in at the front, 20in at the rear – set within Michelin PS2s. The ZO6’s 7-litre 500-horsepower V8 remains unchanged.

As the name suggets, carbon fibre has been used extensively throughout to save weight and reduce aero lift. The rockers, splitter and raised bonnet are all made of the black stuff. Making it stand out from a standard ZO6 are the black wing mirrors, darkened headlamps and ZR1-style rear winglet.

The car’s chief engineer, Tadge Jeuchter, says the Carbon Edition combines ‘the lightweight and naturally-aspirated ZO6 engine with the road-holding and braking of the ZR1’. Around Laguna Seca, it translates to a three-second gain.

Though it’s meant for track days, a leather and suede upholstry with unique sill plates and headreast are all the changes on the inside. No bucket seats or roll cage in this one.

When the ZO6 Carbon goes on sale at the tail end of this year, Middle East numbers will be limited, as only 500 examples will be sold worldwide. Prices haven’t been announced, but expect it to slot in above the ZO6 and below the ZR1, at around the $ 100K mark.