The timing of this video probably isn't a coincidence. There's been so much publicity surrounding the reveal of the new 2020 Corvette that some may have temporarily forgotten about its excellent but soon to be discontinued predecessor, the C7. Hennessey Performance certainly hasn't, and it's here to remind us by bringing out its baddest and most powerful C7 tuning job to date, the ZR1 HPE1200. With a total of 1,200 horsepower and 1,066 lb-ft of torque, this fully street legal C7 ZR1 is ridiculously fast.

For our visual and audio enjoyment, Hennessey's crew took a C7 ZR1 HPE1200 to the drag strip for some speed action. In addition to its high output, the vehicle in question is also wearing lightweight smaller wheels wrapped in drag radials for improved grip. The front wheels, meanwhile, remain stock. This translates to better acceleration and speed.

The C7 is also equipped with the ZTK Performance Package, an OEM option that adds a front splitter and a rear wing. Despite the 102-degree heat, this 1,200-hp ZR1 set a fastest pass of 8.97 seconds at 156 mph. No new records were broken here, but there's no way the stock C8 will be able to top that.

Yes, we know that's not a fair comparison, but Hennessey has already announced plans for a C8 modification program. In the meantime, this totally badass Corvette ZR1 HPE1200 is about as good as you can get if you're seeking the fastest C7 possible.

Chevrolet has already promised, however, that the new mid-engined C8 Stingray is even faster than its C7 Stingray predecessor. Furthermore – and Chevy refuses to spill the beans – the C8 was designed and engineered to accommodate electrification. Chances are an electric motor will be placed up front at some point during the C8's life cycle. It'll be interesting, to say the least, what aftermarket tuners like Hennessey will accomplish when they have electric motors to play with.