2005 MTI Devil Ray C6 Corvette

On the cusp of Chevrolet announcing the true output--505 ponies--of its upcoming 2006 Z06, Texas-based MTI announced the availability of its 427 cube LS2 V-8 C6 that pounds out a solid 100 horsepower more.

The heart of MTI's $23,995 Devil Ray package is a fully reworked LS2 V-8. The factory cylinder block is gutted before being fit with a stroker crankshaft, longer-than-stock lightweight connecting rods, and forged 11.8:1 pistons. The new bottom end yields an impressive 427.6 cubic inches (7.0 liters)--same as the new Z06. Feeding the engine are a set of MTI's Stage III cylinder heads that have been competition ported and fitted with Ferrea stainless-steel valves, dual valve springs, and titanium retainers. An MTI high-flow air-inlet system funnels cool air to a modified aftermarket intake manifold.

MTI's aggressive DR1 hydraulic roller camshaft provides a true musclecar-era rumble that echoes through huge 17/8-inch-diameter stainless-steel headers venting to high-flow catalytic converters and a free-flowing, stainless-steel dual-exhaust system. Capping the wicked MTI motor package is a pair of custom valve covers. The mighty 427 pounds out over 600 horsepower on pump gas, and the engine will pass smog tests in most states. MTI backs its workmanship with a two-year/24,000-mile warranty. Speeding tickets are your problem, however.

Inside, the Devil Ray comes with special logo embroidery on the seats and recovered console. Just above the shifter (that's connected to a six-speed manual fit with a heavy-duty clutch) is a serialized plaque--important, as just 25 models will be built. Exterior mods consists of tasteful Devil Ray logos, a 1.5-inch-lowered ride height, and a set of MTI's own (optional to the package) forged wheels. Our tester made use of 19x10- and 19x11-inch alloys wrapped in Michelin Pilot Sport 2 tires that add $2505 to the tab.