The Z06 continued to be the star of the 2002 Corvette show, but the regular coupe and convertible also saw a few moderate changes for the ‘02 model year. All ‘02 Z06 cars and 10,964 RPO 1SC convertibles used thinner 4.8mm glass on the windshields, which saved 2 ⅔ pounds on each car. Previously optional on the Corvette, floor mats became standard equipment in 2002.

The LS6 engine was overhauled in 2002. It’s output increased to 405 hp and 400 lb.-ft of torque. Two small catalytic converters were removed and exhaust back pressure was reduced by 16%. The redesign of the two primary converters under the the floor allowed the Corvette to meet Nationwide Low Emission Vehicle standards. The camshaft was modified such that it achieved the highest lift in small-block history.

All 2002 Z06 cars received front fender badges which read: “Z06 405 HP”. Only five colors were available on the Z06, but the coupe and convertible cars could be painted in eight different colors. With the exception of the 1996 model year, red was the top selling color for all C4 Corvettes, and for all C5’s until 2002. In 2002, black outsold red by 267 cars. Total production for the year reached 35,767 cars. The Z06 sold 8,297 hardtops, but was still outsold by the coupe (14,760) and convertible (12,710).