NASCAR Legend Jeff Gordon Builds His Own Corvette ZR1X Engine

Gordon and his father assemble the powerful LT7 V-8 at Corvette's Performance Build Center

Published on Feb. 20, 2026

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

NASCAR Hall of Famer Jeff Gordon recently visited Corvette's Performance Build Center in Bowling Green, Kentucky to personally assemble the 1250-horsepower LT7 V-8 engine that will power his new Corvette ZR1X supercar. Gordon and his father spent the day at the facility going through the full engine build process, from short block assembly to installing the turbochargers and final inspection.

Why it matters

Corvette's new Engine Build Experience program allows buyers of high-performance models like the ZR1X to personally assemble their own engines, adding a unique and memorable element to the ownership experience. As a NASCAR legend, Gordon's participation highlights the program's appeal to enthusiast customers who want to be intimately involved in the creation of their dream car.

The details

The day-long engine build process captured on video shows Gordon and his father arriving at the Performance Build Center at 9:39 a.m. and progressing through short block assembly, long block assembly, the cold test, installing the blue intake manifold, mounting the turbochargers, and finally adding the nameplate as the final touch before a final inspection. The entire experience cost Gordon $9,995, nearly double the price of Corvette's previous engine build program.

  • Gordon and his father arrived at the Performance Build Center at 9:39 a.m.
  • Short block assembly began at 10:09 a.m.
  • Long block assembly started just after noon
  • The cold test was performed at 1:27 p.m.
  • The LT7's blue intake manifold was installed at 1:55 p.m.

The players

Jeff Gordon

A NASCAR Hall of Famer who recently purchased a Corvette ZR1X and participated in Corvette's Engine Build Experience to personally assemble the powerful LT7 V-8 engine that will power his new supercar.

Corvette Performance Build Center

The facility in Bowling Green, Kentucky where Corvette owners can build their own engines as part of the brand's Engine Build Experience program.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“That's pretty cool, huh?”

— Jeff Gordon (Instagram)

What’s next

After the engine build was completed, the LT7 V-8 will be installed in Gordon's new Corvette ZR1X, which he is eagerly awaiting to take delivery of and put the 1250-horsepower powerplant to the test.

The takeaway

Corvette's Engine Build Experience program offers enthusiast customers a unique opportunity to be intimately involved in the creation of their dream car, adding a personal touch that enhances the ownership experience. Jeff Gordon's participation as a NASCAR legend underscores the appeal of this program to high-performance vehicle buyers who want to be part of the build process.