A History of the Corvette
Inspired by enthusiast Megan Wright
Introduction
Enthusiasts describe Corvettes as the coolest, most awesome, hottest cars that ever rolled off an assembly line. All that glowing praise is because, well, they are!
When our boys came home after World War II, American GI's brought the European cars they’d fallen in love with - Alfa Romeos, Jaguars, MGs, and such. General Motors (GM) designer Harley Earl wanted to build an American-made car that captured the thrill of the road the way these two-seater European sports cars did. Project Opel, the code name for the development phase of the Corvette, was born and the world’s first Corvette was showcased at GM’s 1953 Motorama car show.
Named after a small, highly maneuverable fighting ship, Corvettes sported fiberglass bodies that decreased the weight and thus boosted the speed of the car but because was in short supply due to rationing as an aftermath of the war. In spite of the promise its name implied, the first series, C1, Corvettes didn’t quite live up to expectations. Zora Arkus-Duntov (nicknamed the Father of the Corvette) stepped in, revamped the car’s performance capabilities, and history was made.
When our boys came home after World War II, American GI's brought the European cars they’d fallen in love with - Alfa Romeos, Jaguars, MGs, and such. General Motors (GM) designer Harley Earl wanted to build an American-made car that captured the thrill of the road the way these two-seater European sports cars did. Project Opel, the code name for the development phase of the Corvette, was born and the world’s first Corvette was showcased at GM’s 1953 Motorama car show.
Named after a small, highly maneuverable fighting ship, Corvettes sported fiberglass bodies that decreased the weight and thus boosted the speed of the car but because was in short supply due to rationing as an aftermath of the war. In spite of the promise its name implied, the first series, C1, Corvettes didn’t quite live up to expectations. Zora Arkus-Duntov (nicknamed the Father of the Corvette) stepped in, revamped the car’s performance capabilities, and history was made.
1953 to 1962 (C1 Series)
The 300 Corvettes made in 1953 were built and assembled by hand, making them the most highly prized Corvettes ever made. Until the V8 engine was introduced in 1955, Blue Flame straight-6 engines were standard. Fuel injection was added in 1957, producing about 290 horsepower (hp), or about one hp per cubic inch (an automotive first), as its advertising campaign boasted. Other C1 upgrades and innovations included the hydraulic convertible top, electric windows, heavy duty brake and suspension systems, and four-speed manual transmission.
On the outside, the 1958 model was the flashiest ever made, heavy with chrome, quad headlights, hood louvers, twin trunk spars, and bumper-exit exhaust. Later models gained speed by dropping some of the chrome. The 1961 model featured a boat-tail rear and four round tail lights. The engine was enlarged in 1962 to 327 cubic inches (cu in) (5.4L), producing 360 hp at full performance.
The 300 Corvettes made in 1953 were built and assembled by hand, making them the most highly prized Corvettes ever made. Until the V8 engine was introduced in 1955, Blue Flame straight-6 engines were standard. Fuel injection was added in 1957, producing about 290 horsepower (hp), or about one hp per cubic inch (an automotive first), as its advertising campaign boasted. Other C1 upgrades and innovations included the hydraulic convertible top, electric windows, heavy duty brake and suspension systems, and four-speed manual transmission.
On the outside, the 1958 model was the flashiest ever made, heavy with chrome, quad headlights, hood louvers, twin trunk spars, and bumper-exit exhaust. Later models gained speed by dropping some of the chrome. The 1961 model featured a boat-tail rear and four round tail lights. The engine was enlarged in 1962 to 327 cubic inches (cu in) (5.4L), producing 360 hp at full performance.
1963 to 1967 (C2 Series)
The Sting Ray debuted in 1963, Corvette’s first coupe and first to feature independent rear suspension. Its body design was inspired by the mako shark the program’s styling director caught while fishing. Split rear windows and nonfunctional hood vents were eliminated by 1964. 1963’s maximum horsepower reached 360 but jumped to 375 in 1964.
Four-wheel disc brakes and a big block engine (396 CID [cubic inch displacement]/6.5L) V8 were standard for the 1965 Corvette and side exhaust pipes were optional. Engine size continued to grow during the C2 series, culminating with the L-88 427 CID (7L) engine in 1967, which produced, unofficially, a whopping 530 hp; only 20 such Corvettes were made, making them so coveted they sell for no less than a million dollars at auction today.
Other innovations of the C2 series include the WonderBar auto-tune AM radio, AM-FM radio, air conditioning, telescopic steering column, and headrests. Sports Car International listed the Corvette Sting Ray as the #5 top sports car during the 1960’s.
The Sting Ray debuted in 1963, Corvette’s first coupe and first to feature independent rear suspension. Its body design was inspired by the mako shark the program’s styling director caught while fishing. Split rear windows and nonfunctional hood vents were eliminated by 1964. 1963’s maximum horsepower reached 360 but jumped to 375 in 1964.
Four-wheel disc brakes and a big block engine (396 CID [cubic inch displacement]/6.5L) V8 were standard for the 1965 Corvette and side exhaust pipes were optional. Engine size continued to grow during the C2 series, culminating with the L-88 427 CID (7L) engine in 1967, which produced, unofficially, a whopping 530 hp; only 20 such Corvettes were made, making them so coveted they sell for no less than a million dollars at auction today.
Other innovations of the C2 series include the WonderBar auto-tune AM radio, AM-FM radio, air conditioning, telescopic steering column, and headrests. Sports Car International listed the Corvette Sting Ray as the #5 top sports car during the 1960’s.
1968 to 1982 (C3 Series)
By 1982, the mako shark style was the longest running body style in automotive history, remaining relatively the same for 14 years. Beginning in 1969, the cars were Stingrays, not Sting Rays, and only in 1969 the engine was an all-aluminum 427 cu (7L) ZL-1 big block. Engine size and performance output increased each year until 1972, when government regulations - adaption of the SAE Net power measurement system, catalytic converters, emission controls, and unleaded fuel - led to decline in performance until 1975, when its ZQ3 engine produced only 165 hp.
The C3 series’ fiber-optic monitoring system was discontinued in 1971 due to cost concerns. In 1973, the front bumper made of chrome was replaced by a urethane-compound bumper, thanks to more government regulations. The rear chrome bumpers were replaced in 1974. The convertible top was discontinued in 1975 and the name, Sting Ray (or Stingray), was dropped in 1977.
The 1978 Corvette, a celebration of the model’s 25th anniversary, featured a revamped interior and fast back glass rear window. This Silver Anniversary edition was the Pace Car at the Indianapolis 500 that year, a first for Corvette and perhaps a factor that made 1979’s model the peak year for Corvette production. An integrated aerodynamic design was introduced in 1980 and an opening rear hatch and cross fire injection came in 1982, when the only transmission produced was automatic.
By 1982, the mako shark style was the longest running body style in automotive history, remaining relatively the same for 14 years. Beginning in 1969, the cars were Stingrays, not Sting Rays, and only in 1969 the engine was an all-aluminum 427 cu (7L) ZL-1 big block. Engine size and performance output increased each year until 1972, when government regulations - adaption of the SAE Net power measurement system, catalytic converters, emission controls, and unleaded fuel - led to decline in performance until 1975, when its ZQ3 engine produced only 165 hp.
The C3 series’ fiber-optic monitoring system was discontinued in 1971 due to cost concerns. In 1973, the front bumper made of chrome was replaced by a urethane-compound bumper, thanks to more government regulations. The rear chrome bumpers were replaced in 1974. The convertible top was discontinued in 1975 and the name, Sting Ray (or Stingray), was dropped in 1977.
The 1978 Corvette, a celebration of the model’s 25th anniversary, featured a revamped interior and fast back glass rear window. This Silver Anniversary edition was the Pace Car at the Indianapolis 500 that year, a first for Corvette and perhaps a factor that made 1979’s model the peak year for Corvette production. An integrated aerodynamic design was introduced in 1980 and an opening rear hatch and cross fire injection came in 1982, when the only transmission produced was automatic.
1984 to 1996 (C4 Series)
Thanks to production issues, there was no 1983 Corvette but early production of the 1984 model was begun instead. This 1984 design was leaked to Mattel’s Hot Wheels division, where production of the scale model toy hit store shelves before the car itself hit the showrooms, a situation that created a great deal of friction between toy maker and car maker.
Except for its engine, the L83 used in the latest C3 models, the 1984 Corvette presented a completely redesigned car featuring rear hatch for ease in accessing the cargo area, aluminum brake calipers and suspension, one-piece targa top, electronic dashboard utilizing liquid crystal displays for the tach- and speedometers. The front transverse composite leaf spring, still used but improved for later models, presented handling issues for the 1984 model.
US fuel economy standards led to the introduction of an unpopular 4+3-style transmission from 1984 until 1988, when it was replaced with the ZF 6-speed manual gearbox which featured a computer-aided gear selection (CAGS) mechanism for 1989’s model. The 230 hp (L98) engine with tuned port fuel injection, introduced in 1985, became standard for the C4 series.
The convertible top returned for 1986, as the only option, as did Corvette’s invitation to serve as the Indy 500 Pace Car, where, in stock form, it was able to keep pace with the high-performance race cars. Also added in 1986 was the center high mounted signal light as required by federal law. The 1988 35th Anniversary Edition sported a commemorative identification badge adjacent to the gear shift and was entirely white - inside, outside, and wheels, too.
The 1992 Corvette came with a 300 hp LT1 engine and acceleration slip regulation (ASR) traction control system. 1993’s 40th Anniversary Edition, ruby red with embroidered back seats, introduced GM’s first passive keyless entry system. Special models and options were available in 1996, the last of C4 series production. During the run of the C4 series, newly introduced upgrades included antilock brakes, airbags, climate control, computer-controlled 6-speed manual transmission, a digital instrument panel, overhead cams, and four valves per cylinder in the ZR-1 engine.
Optional models produced during the C4 series included the B2K Callaway Twin-Turbo in 1987, the ZR-1 from 1990 to 1995, and the Grand Sport and Collector Editions in 1996.
Thanks to production issues, there was no 1983 Corvette but early production of the 1984 model was begun instead. This 1984 design was leaked to Mattel’s Hot Wheels division, where production of the scale model toy hit store shelves before the car itself hit the showrooms, a situation that created a great deal of friction between toy maker and car maker.
Except for its engine, the L83 used in the latest C3 models, the 1984 Corvette presented a completely redesigned car featuring rear hatch for ease in accessing the cargo area, aluminum brake calipers and suspension, one-piece targa top, electronic dashboard utilizing liquid crystal displays for the tach- and speedometers. The front transverse composite leaf spring, still used but improved for later models, presented handling issues for the 1984 model.
US fuel economy standards led to the introduction of an unpopular 4+3-style transmission from 1984 until 1988, when it was replaced with the ZF 6-speed manual gearbox which featured a computer-aided gear selection (CAGS) mechanism for 1989’s model. The 230 hp (L98) engine with tuned port fuel injection, introduced in 1985, became standard for the C4 series.
The convertible top returned for 1986, as the only option, as did Corvette’s invitation to serve as the Indy 500 Pace Car, where, in stock form, it was able to keep pace with the high-performance race cars. Also added in 1986 was the center high mounted signal light as required by federal law. The 1988 35th Anniversary Edition sported a commemorative identification badge adjacent to the gear shift and was entirely white - inside, outside, and wheels, too.
The 1992 Corvette came with a 300 hp LT1 engine and acceleration slip regulation (ASR) traction control system. 1993’s 40th Anniversary Edition, ruby red with embroidered back seats, introduced GM’s first passive keyless entry system. Special models and options were available in 1996, the last of C4 series production. During the run of the C4 series, newly introduced upgrades included antilock brakes, airbags, climate control, computer-controlled 6-speed manual transmission, a digital instrument panel, overhead cams, and four valves per cylinder in the ZR-1 engine.
Optional models produced during the C4 series included the B2K Callaway Twin-Turbo in 1987, the ZR-1 from 1990 to 1995, and the Grand Sport and Collector Editions in 1996.
1997 to 2004 (C5 Series)
The C5 series, with major changes from the C4, is said to present improvements in almost every aspect, including its top speed, clocked at 168 miles per hour (mph). The C5 introduced GM’s latest engine, the LS1 small block, new cylinder firing order, and distributor-less ignition. Its original 345 hp rating increased to 350 hp in 2001.A hard-top only in 1997, the convertible returned once again in 1998. In 2001, the Z06 was introduced as a modern version of the race-ready 1963 Corvette, featuring a LS6 engine producing 385 hp. Although the LS6 produced less horsepower than its ZR-1 predecessor from the C4 series, the Z06 model was lighter than the C4 models, making it faster with quicker maneuverability. To complement the added power of the Z06, the body, suspension, wheels and tires, transmission, gearing, and brake cooling ducts were improved, too. A titanium exhaust, thinner glass, and wheels and battery less heavy than the C5 fixed roof coupe (FRC) made the Z06 38 pounds lighter than its hard-top counterpart.
Enhancements to the electron blue 2002 Z06 include revised rear shock valving and steel links, spun cast wheels, and fender badges proclaiming 405 hp. The 2003 model, a 50th anniversary model, features silver badges, a redesigned headliner, and can go from zero to 60 mph in 3.9 seconds with a top speed of 198 in fifth gear. The LeMans blue 2004 Z06 Commemorative Edition sports a lighter-weight carbon fiber hood, polished aluminum wheels, and Nurburgring-tested suspension tuning for improved handling.
The C5-R, featuring an enlarged engine, improved aerodynamic body design, wider track, and longer wheelbase designed for the race track, has seen competition in Daytona and Sebring and at LeMans series events in the US and Europe.
The C5 series, with major changes from the C4, is said to present improvements in almost every aspect, including its top speed, clocked at 168 miles per hour (mph). The C5 introduced GM’s latest engine, the LS1 small block, new cylinder firing order, and distributor-less ignition. Its original 345 hp rating increased to 350 hp in 2001.A hard-top only in 1997, the convertible returned once again in 1998. In 2001, the Z06 was introduced as a modern version of the race-ready 1963 Corvette, featuring a LS6 engine producing 385 hp. Although the LS6 produced less horsepower than its ZR-1 predecessor from the C4 series, the Z06 model was lighter than the C4 models, making it faster with quicker maneuverability. To complement the added power of the Z06, the body, suspension, wheels and tires, transmission, gearing, and brake cooling ducts were improved, too. A titanium exhaust, thinner glass, and wheels and battery less heavy than the C5 fixed roof coupe (FRC) made the Z06 38 pounds lighter than its hard-top counterpart.
Enhancements to the electron blue 2002 Z06 include revised rear shock valving and steel links, spun cast wheels, and fender badges proclaiming 405 hp. The 2003 model, a 50th anniversary model, features silver badges, a redesigned headliner, and can go from zero to 60 mph in 3.9 seconds with a top speed of 198 in fifth gear. The LeMans blue 2004 Z06 Commemorative Edition sports a lighter-weight carbon fiber hood, polished aluminum wheels, and Nurburgring-tested suspension tuning for improved handling.
The C5-R, featuring an enlarged engine, improved aerodynamic body design, wider track, and longer wheelbase designed for the race track, has seen competition in Daytona and Sebring and at LeMans series events in the US and Europe.
2005 to 2013 (C6 Series)
Like the C5 series’ C5-R racing model, the C6.R, introduced in 2005, was built for competition but results proved disappointing in GT1 class events. The 2009 C6.R, based on the ZR1 design, is designed for GT2 class competition.
Not seen since 1962, the C6 series models feature exposed headlamps as well as larger passenger compartments, overhaul of the suspension geometry, a larger 6.0L engine (about 366 cu in). The body is both shorter and narrower, innovations intended to enhance the car’s appeal in Europe. Low drag and curb weight enhance fuel efficiency (18 city/27 highway miles per gallon) even though it can go from zero to 60 in less than 4.2 seconds.2008’s Corvette produces about 430 hp from a 6.2L engine, its 6-speed manual transmission features improved shift linkage, and its automatic transmission shifts quicker than any previous Corvette model. Options include a full-leather interior and five-spoke wheels.2010 will see the return of the Grand Sport designation, along with the wide body of the Z06 models, the C6 powertrain available in both the convertible and targa coupe models, and a launch control system.
The 2010 model Grand Sport features 18-inch front and 19-inch rear wheels, optional chrome finish instead of paint although paint is available in all standard Corvette colors, wider front and rear fenders, TREMEC manual transmission, and many features similar to but improved from previous Grand Sport models.
The 2006 model Z06, with its aluminum frame beat the Porsche 911 GT3 and Lotus Exige S in Car and Driver’s 2007 performance analysis and its Pace Car edition officiated at both the Daytona and Indianapolis 500 races.
The 2007 model was listed as an automobile all-star in Automobile Magazine.
For 2008, the Z06 got a TR6060 six-speed manual transmission and improved steering rack.
Spider-style wheels grace the 2009 model, as do an electronic pull-down rear hatch, variable steering ratio, and updated software for its handling and traction control systems. From this model forward, parts are supplied by BOSCH instead of Delphi.2008’s ZR1, with its sticker price of $100,000 and top speed of 205 mph, features a new LS9 engine - Eaton supercharged 6.2L engine producing 638 hp and 604 foot-pounds of force; it’s the most powerful engine ever put into a GM sports car. Ceramic brakes, adjustable suspension, wider tires, carbon-fiber body parts, and a weight distribution that puts 52% at the front end complete this package.
Like the C5 series’ C5-R racing model, the C6.R, introduced in 2005, was built for competition but results proved disappointing in GT1 class events. The 2009 C6.R, based on the ZR1 design, is designed for GT2 class competition.
Not seen since 1962, the C6 series models feature exposed headlamps as well as larger passenger compartments, overhaul of the suspension geometry, a larger 6.0L engine (about 366 cu in). The body is both shorter and narrower, innovations intended to enhance the car’s appeal in Europe. Low drag and curb weight enhance fuel efficiency (18 city/27 highway miles per gallon) even though it can go from zero to 60 in less than 4.2 seconds.2008’s Corvette produces about 430 hp from a 6.2L engine, its 6-speed manual transmission features improved shift linkage, and its automatic transmission shifts quicker than any previous Corvette model. Options include a full-leather interior and five-spoke wheels.2010 will see the return of the Grand Sport designation, along with the wide body of the Z06 models, the C6 powertrain available in both the convertible and targa coupe models, and a launch control system.
The 2010 model Grand Sport features 18-inch front and 19-inch rear wheels, optional chrome finish instead of paint although paint is available in all standard Corvette colors, wider front and rear fenders, TREMEC manual transmission, and many features similar to but improved from previous Grand Sport models.
The 2006 model Z06, with its aluminum frame beat the Porsche 911 GT3 and Lotus Exige S in Car and Driver’s 2007 performance analysis and its Pace Car edition officiated at both the Daytona and Indianapolis 500 races.
The 2007 model was listed as an automobile all-star in Automobile Magazine.
For 2008, the Z06 got a TR6060 six-speed manual transmission and improved steering rack.
Spider-style wheels grace the 2009 model, as do an electronic pull-down rear hatch, variable steering ratio, and updated software for its handling and traction control systems. From this model forward, parts are supplied by BOSCH instead of Delphi.2008’s ZR1, with its sticker price of $100,000 and top speed of 205 mph, features a new LS9 engine - Eaton supercharged 6.2L engine producing 638 hp and 604 foot-pounds of force; it’s the most powerful engine ever put into a GM sports car. Ceramic brakes, adjustable suspension, wider tires, carbon-fiber body parts, and a weight distribution that puts 52% at the front end complete this package.
2014 to 2019 (C7 Series)
The Chevrolet Corvette (C7) is the seventh generation of the Corvette sports car manufactured by American automobile manufacturer Chevrolet from 2014 until 2019. The first C7 Corvettes were delivered in the third quarter of 2013.
Development and introduction
Chevrolet Corvette C7 Stingray
GM executives began planning the next-generation (C7) Corvette sports car in 2007. The car was originally planned for the 2011 model year, but was delayed.[2] Mid-engine and rear-engine layouts had been considered, but the Front mid-engine, rear-wheel-drive platform was chosen to keep costs lower.[3]
The lead exterior designer of the C7 Corvette was Hwasup Lee, whose team completed the design between 2010 and 2011.[4] The design director for the C7 was Kirk Bennion and the design was approved by the division's design director, Tom Peters, in 2011.[5]
The 2014 Corvette debuted on Sunday, January 13, 2013, in Detroit at the North American International Auto Show.[6] Chevrolet also showed the new crossed flags logo for the Corvette.
While overall the C7 attempts to provide an evolutionary redesign to an iconic theme, the car's designers incorporated aggressive angular elements. The C7 received criticism for some of the more styled elements of the car. "The rear contains what will surely be the C7's most controversial styling elements. It's all creases and vents back there, with aggressive trapezoidal taillights similar to those found on the current Camaro and quadruple-barreled tailpipes lined up in a neat row in the center of the rear valance", wrote Jason Kavanagh for Edmunds.[7] Functional aerodynamic aids are tacked on or cut into every body panel of the C7, often juxtaposed against sharp creases. This is a radical departure from the prior generations of Corvettes, whose styling had no spoiler, few body panel creases, and only semi-functional gills for front brake cooling. In addition, past Corvette models minimized the size of headlamps or even hid them altogether. The C7 reverses that minimalist styling language with intricately styled headlamps with integrated LED daytime running lights (DRL).
The C7's all-new LT1 6.2L Small Block V-8 engine develops 460 horsepower (340 kW) and 465 pound-feet (630 N⋅m) of torque. This comes with the performance exhaust package, which is already included in the Z51 Performance Package or the level-up model, the Grand Sport, but is very common to see the standalone performance exhaust package being paired up with the base model. Without the performance exhaust, the powertrain produces 455 horsepower (339 kW) and 460 pound-feet (620 N⋅m) of torque. With the performance exhaust, the car can accelerate from 0–60 mph (97 km/h) in 3.7 seconds when paired with the eight-speed automatic gearbox. [8] The C7's suspension consists of independent unequal-length double wishbones with transverse fiberglass mono-leaf springs and optional magnetorheological dampers, similar to its predecessor.
Further details on the Corvette C7 can be found here.
Development and introduction
Chevrolet Corvette C7 Stingray
GM executives began planning the next-generation (C7) Corvette sports car in 2007. The car was originally planned for the 2011 model year, but was delayed.[2] Mid-engine and rear-engine layouts had been considered, but the Front mid-engine, rear-wheel-drive platform was chosen to keep costs lower.[3]
The lead exterior designer of the C7 Corvette was Hwasup Lee, whose team completed the design between 2010 and 2011.[4] The design director for the C7 was Kirk Bennion and the design was approved by the division's design director, Tom Peters, in 2011.[5]
The 2014 Corvette debuted on Sunday, January 13, 2013, in Detroit at the North American International Auto Show.[6] Chevrolet also showed the new crossed flags logo for the Corvette.
While overall the C7 attempts to provide an evolutionary redesign to an iconic theme, the car's designers incorporated aggressive angular elements. The C7 received criticism for some of the more styled elements of the car. "The rear contains what will surely be the C7's most controversial styling elements. It's all creases and vents back there, with aggressive trapezoidal taillights similar to those found on the current Camaro and quadruple-barreled tailpipes lined up in a neat row in the center of the rear valance", wrote Jason Kavanagh for Edmunds.[7] Functional aerodynamic aids are tacked on or cut into every body panel of the C7, often juxtaposed against sharp creases. This is a radical departure from the prior generations of Corvettes, whose styling had no spoiler, few body panel creases, and only semi-functional gills for front brake cooling. In addition, past Corvette models minimized the size of headlamps or even hid them altogether. The C7 reverses that minimalist styling language with intricately styled headlamps with integrated LED daytime running lights (DRL).
The C7's all-new LT1 6.2L Small Block V-8 engine develops 460 horsepower (340 kW) and 465 pound-feet (630 N⋅m) of torque. This comes with the performance exhaust package, which is already included in the Z51 Performance Package or the level-up model, the Grand Sport, but is very common to see the standalone performance exhaust package being paired up with the base model. Without the performance exhaust, the powertrain produces 455 horsepower (339 kW) and 460 pound-feet (620 N⋅m) of torque. With the performance exhaust, the car can accelerate from 0–60 mph (97 km/h) in 3.7 seconds when paired with the eight-speed automatic gearbox. [8] The C7's suspension consists of independent unequal-length double wishbones with transverse fiberglass mono-leaf springs and optional magnetorheological dampers, similar to its predecessor.
Further details on the Corvette C7 can be found here.
2020...... (C8 Series)
Chevrolet C8 Corvette (2020-??)
The C8 is the eighth and current generation of the Chevrolet Corvette, which began in the 2020 model year. It's the first mid-engine layout of the Corvette since the original model back in 1953. It's also GM's first mid-engine sports car since the discontinuation of the Pontiac Fiero in 1988. Rumors of a mid-engine Corvette were rife during the previous generation, and it was officially announced in April of 2019. The C8 Corvette debuted with a two-door Targa top coupe body style and a two-door retractable hardtop convertible.
The C8's design is vastly different from previous generations of the Corvette. It features completely new aluminum construction and coil-over springs instead of the previous leaf springs. The exterior styling features an aggressive aerodynamic look with bigger air intakes and deep side scoops. The rear of the car offers a small trunk, and the front also includes a storage space since the engine is near the rear-middle of the car.
Inside, the cockpit has a very driver-centric feel, with most controls on the center console. The steering wheel is designed in a unique hexagon style and also includes various controls. The first production model for the C8 generation was the 2020 Corvette Stingray. Some significant upgrades were made for the following 2021 model year, and there were a few changes for the 2022 model year.
So far, the only engines in use for the C8 are the 6.2-liter LT2 V8 for most models and the 5.5-liter LT6 V8 engine for the Z06 Corvette.
C8 Corvette Evolution and Changes
For 2020, the Corvette Stingray came in the 1LT, 2LT, and 3LT trims. The only engine was the LT2 V8 mentioned above. This is a GM small-block V8 derived from the LT1 that was in the C7 Corvette. This brand new, naturally aspirated engine comes in at 490 horsepower and 465 pound-feet of torque. The power output improves on the C7 by about 40 horsepower. The only transmission available is an eight-speed automatic transmission with paddle shifters located on the steering wheel. A manual transmission was considered but dropped due to a lack of interest from customers.
Another unique feature of the C8 Corvette is that it's available in a right-hand-drive configuration for markets in the UK, Australia, and Japan. The C8 is GM's only RHD vehicle to be made directly at the factory instead of being converted from LHD after assembly. This is the first time a production RHD Corvette has been available since 1953.
2021
For the 2021 model year, two colors were discontinued, and two new colors were added. The full-length racing stripe options were also given four new color choices. The Z51 package added Magnetic Ride as an available option, and the price was increased by nearly $1,000. Wireless connectivity for Apple and Android became standard for 2021. One issue with the 2020 model year going into 2021 is that production for 2020 was cut off due to Covid-19. Many customers who ordered the 2020 model would not get their cars until the 2021 model went into production. This created an unpopular issue where people who ordered 2020 models and had them delayed would end up paying the 2021 price increases.
2022
The base price was increased again for the 2022 model year. This model featured new injectors and a new fuel pump, which improved engine calibration but did not raise the horsepower. Three colors from 2021 were discontinued, but three new colors were also added. The IMSA GTLM Championship Edition package was introduced for 2022, limited to 1,000 units.
Z06
The Z06 was originally unveiled in October of 2021, but it won't hit the streets until the 2023 model year, which should be sometime in 2022. The Z06 is the performance version of the Corvette, offering three trim levels: 1LZ, 2LZ, 3LZ. The Z07 Performance Package can also be added to all trims, and it offers upgraded brakes, suspension tuning, performance tires, and carbon fiber aerodynamics.
The Z06 will feature a 5.5-liter naturally aspirated V8 engine that is all new and makes 670 horsepower and 460 pound-feet of torque. This engine is called the LT6 and will be the most powerful naturally aspirated production V8 ever. The previous holder of this title is the Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG Black Series M159 engine. The same eight-speed dual-clutch transmission used by the Corvette Stingray models will also be standard on the Z06. It will also utilize the same suspension setup as the Stingray. However, standard equipment will include magnetic ride adaptive suspension and an electronic limited-slip differential.
Pricing for the Z06 hasn't been announced yet, but it's expected to start at around $90,000. According to Chevrolet, the Z06 can pull 1.22 g on a 300-foot skidpad and is capable of producing 734 pounds of downforce at 186 mph. The top speed of the Z06 hasn't been revealed yet, but some experts expect that it might hit 200 mph.
Legacy of the C8 Corvette
As the C8 Corvette generation is ongoing, it's hard to say what its legacy will be by the end. However, it's a unique model from previous generations, so there's no doubt that it will stand out for that alone. The upcoming 2023 model year should be introduced by the summer of 2022 and will include the long-anticipated Z06 with the most powerful naturally aspirated V8 engine to ever be placed in a production car.
Check out these links to see how the Corvette has evolved over the years.
Loyalty runs high in Corvette ownership and interest is rather equally distributed across the United States, with highest interest apparently in Michigan, where 3.47 of every 1,000 residents owns a Corvette, according to 2009 data supplied by Experian Automotive and the Specialty Equipment Market Association. The typical Corvette owner is 53 years old although 82% of all owners are between 40 and 69 years of age. Corvette owners are better educated than the norm, with 47% holding college degrees, versus 27% of the general population. There are currently over 750,000 Corvettes registered to drivers in the US.
Loyalty runs high in Corvette ownership and interest is rather equally distributed across the United States, with highest interest apparently in Michigan, where 3.47 of every 1,000 residents owns a Corvette, according to 2009 data supplied by Experian Automotive and the Specialty Equipment Market Association. The typical Corvette owner is 53 years old although 82% of all owners are between 40 and 69 years of age. Corvette owners are better educated than the norm, with 47% holding college degrees, versus 27% of the general population. There are currently over 750,000 Corvettes registered to drivers in the US.
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The Corvette story provides Corvette photos and data for every model ever made.
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Kerbeck Corvette is home to the 1952 Corvette prototype, EX-122,
the oldest Corvette ever made.
the oldest Corvette ever made.
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Corvette articles thru the years.
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The C1 Registry is devoted entirely to the C1 Series Corvette.
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Muscle Car Club World Wide Muscle Car Registry provides C2 Corvette history.
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Corvette C3 provides everything anyone would want to know about the C3 series.
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The Corvette C4 Page provides details of the C4 design and development process.
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Rogers Corvette Center can tell you how long it took to build a car from the C5 series.
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Corvette C6 - "Evolution of a Superstar"
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Chevrolet Corvette C7 Stringray
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Chevrolet Corvette C8 Stingray
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Corvette Action Center features photos, info, trivia, and a month-by-month account of Corvette history.
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Edmunds helps potential buyers and sellers price Corvettes competitively.
