Chevrolet Corvette: seven decades of American success

A constantly evolving American icon

The Chevrolet Corvette is a legend in the automotive world, with eight generations spanning seven decades. From the original C1 of 1953 through to the new, mid-engined C8, Chevrolet has never stood still.

Along with being a winner on the street, the Corvette has also been successful on the racetrack. A new World Endurance Championship win demonstrates its impressive prowess.

Join us for a look back at the most important moments in the story of the Corvette, covering all eight generations.

Who created the Corvette

Enthusiasts are often split over who can truly be called the ‘father’ of the Corvette. Harley J. Earl was the GM designer who commanded the initial project on a new Chevrolet sports car. His work would lead to the creation of the Corvette.

However, Zora Arkus-Duntov, a Belgian engineer, would lead mechanical development. His involvement would take the Corvette from convertible cruiser, to true all-American sports car.

1953 Chevrolet Corvette Motorama Show Car

Between 1949 and 1961, General Motors held its own car show. Known as Motorama, the event was designed to promote new models directly to customers, and gather their feedback. For January 1953, a hand-built prototype of the Corvette was shown to excited crowds in New York.

Designed to compete with sports cars like the Nash-Healey, the enthusiastic reception convinced GM to rush the Corvette into production.

1953 C1 Chevrolet Corvette

On June 30th 1953, just six months after being displayed at Motorama, the first production C1 Corvette rolled off the Flint, Michigan production line. Only 300 cars were built in the first year, all finished in Polo White with a red interior.

Despite the sporting looks, the C1 was powered by a modest 150 horsepower ‘Blue Flame’ 235-cubic inch straight-six engine. This was combined with a two-speed automatic transmission. Even with a lightweight fiberglass body, performance from the drivetrain was underwhelming.

1954 C1 Chevrolet Corvette

The lack of performance translated into a lack of sales the following year. A substantial number of the 3,640 Corvettes built were left unsold. Quality problems with the fiberglass body caused complaints from those who did dare to buy one. General Motors decided to then move production to a new factory in St Louis, Missouri.

Under the management of Arkus-Duntov, changes would be made for the coming years to give the Corvette a fighting chance.

1958 C1 Chevrolet Corvette 283

Whilst the six-cylinder engine would be upped to 155 horsepower in 1955, the introduction of a 265-cubic inch 195 horsepower V-8 engine was a bigger deal. A three-speed manual transmission also became an option.

By 1958, this had grown to a fuel-injected 283-ci unit, producing 290 hp. Styling changes included the adoption of quad-headlights, more chrome trim and a redesigned grille.

1960 C1 Chevrolet Corvette

The improvements to the Corvette worked, with sales increasing year-on-year between 1956, and the end of C1 production in 1962. The final year would see the option of a 327-cubic inch V-8 engine with 360 horsepower.

A total of 69,000 first-generation Corvettes were built, proving that Harley J. Earl’s dream to produce a two-seat sports car was the correct one.

1959 Chevrolet Corvette XP-87 Stingray Racer

Long before production of the C1 Corvette had finished, Chevrolet was already working on a more radical second-generation model. Built by General Motors designer Bill Mitchell, the XP-87 Stingray Racer was ostensibly created to test handling and performance.

However, the styling features were clearly a preview of the C2 Corvette. XP-87 would even compete on track, taking an SCCA National Championship in 1960. Mitchell would later use the XP-87 as his own personal car on weekends.

1961 Chevrolet Mako Shark

Although styling for the next Corvette was already completed, Chevrolet wanted to generate interest in the forthcoming new car. Enter the Mako Shark concept, designed by Larry Shinoda, under the direction of Bill Mitchell. Inspiration came from a Mako shark Mitchell had caught whilst fishing.

The pointed nose, streamlined sides and short rear made it look futuristic and aggressive. It made for a clear distinction between the old and new Corvettes.

1963 C2 Chevrolet Corvette

The styling of the new C2 Corvette was the most obvious change when launched. But the work of Arkus-Duntov in overhauling the mechanical elements was also revolutionary. The C2 Corvette’s suspension was a leap forward, with a new independent design for the rear instead of the C1’s solid axle.

A 327-cubic inch V-8 was the only engine option, available in outputs ranging from 250 horsepower to 360 horsepower. A three-speed manual gearbox was standard. A four-speed manual, and a two-speed automatic, could be found on the options list.

1963 C2 Chevrolet Corvette Sting Ray

The split rear windscreen was unique to 1963-model year Corvette coupes. It was hated by Arkus-Duntov, but loved by Bill Mitchell and Larry Shinoda. Visibility concerns would ultimately see it removed after just one year.

The coupe was also notably more expensive than the convertible: $4,257 against $4,037. Despite this, sales were split equally between both, with 21,500 examples sold in total during 1963.

1963 C2 Chevrolet Corvette Z06

General Motors had banned factory-sponsored racing, but Arkus-Duntov was still keen to use motorsport to promote the second-generation Corvette.

The development of racing parts for the C2 continued, culminating in the ‘Z06’ option package. This added a substantial $1,818 to the price of the car. The first Z06 race cars went straight into battle, winning their first race at the Los Angeles Times Grand Prix.

1966 C2 Chevrolet Corvette 427

Development continued throughout the life of the C2 Corvette, with the addition of a big-block 427-cubic inch V-8 for the 1966 model year.

With 425 hp, it was no more powerful than the 396-ci V-8 introduced the previous year. Instead, the main attraction was the torque output of 460 lb-ft – a gain of 55 lb-ft.

1967 C2 Chevrolet Corvette Tri-Power

Even more power for the C2 Corvette came in the final year of production. The 427-ci V-8 was fitted with three two-barrel carburettors, intended to maximise output from the big engine. Branded as the ‘Tri-Power’, other tweaks included uprated camshafts that resulted in 425 horsepower.

A special cowl induction hood, feeding air directly to the carburettors, gave the 427 a menacing appearance.

1963 C2 Chevrolet Corvette Grand Sport

Arkus-Duntov had been determined to make the C2 into an effective race car. He had organized a secret project, looking to create a lightweight Corvette to beat the Shelby Cobra. Initial plans were for 125 cars, but all work was stopped when GM executives became aware of the programme.

Just five Grand Sports cars ‘escaped’ the factory, and they proved to be effective in racing. The rarity of the C2 Grand Sport, with values in the region of $5-10 million, has created a substantial market for replicas.

1965 Chevrolet Mako Shark II Concept

Aquatic life made another appearance on a Corvette concept, with the Mako Shark II shown at the 1965 New York Auto Show. Ultra narrow Coke-bottle hips, a louvered rear window, and high fenders were cool features, but would require substantial modification to make a usable road car.

Arkus-Duntov had experimented with a number of mid-engined concepts for the Corvette. These were dismissed as too radical, and would have to wait for several more decades.

1968 C3 Chevrolet Corvette Stingray

The overall shape of the C3 Corvette still owed much to the Mako Shark II when released for the 1968 model year. Pop-up headlights, a removal T-bar roof on coupes and hidden wipers brought the C3 up to date.

Initial engine choices kept the 327-cubic inch and 427-ci V-8s from the C2 Vette, with a new 350-ci unit added in 1969. The two-speed automatic transmission was finally ditched, replaced by the exotic-sounding three-speed Turbo Hydra-matic.

1972 C3 Chevrolet Corvette Stingray LT-1

American car manufacturers found themselves contending with new emissions regulations in the early 1970s, and the Corvette was no exception. By 1972, Chevrolet was already limiting engine choices in California, and had lowered compression to allow engines to use low-octane fuel.

Changes to horsepower measures also meant the output of the 350-ci LT-1 engine reduced from 330 horsepower to 255 horsepower. After 1972 it would be pulled from the options list completely.

1977 C3 Chevrolet Corvette

More changes would take place over the next five years, with the 1977 Corvette gaining urethane bumpers to withstand 5 mph impacts.

Catalytic converters had been introduced in 1975, with the convertible body style dropped the same year. Further changes were seen in 1976 with the end of Stingray badging, and the addition of new Corvette emblems.

1978 C3 Chevrolet Corvette Indy 500 Pace Car

Despite having been in production for over 25 years, the Corvette did not receive the honor of acting as pace car for the Indianapolis 500 until 1978. A special edition of 6,052 cars – one for each Chevrolet dealership – was built to celebrate.

Each was finished in a black and silver color scheme, with the option of silver leather or gray cloth for the interior. Pace car stickers were supplied unattached in the trunk for those who wanted a degree of subtlety.

1984 C4 Chevrolet Corvette

With the origins of the C3 Corvette stretching back to the 1960s, Chevrolet went for clean slate with the fourth-generation car. The dramatic and modern styling was optimized for aerodynamics, and had panels made from plastic instead of fiberglass. An all-new interior included a cutting-edge LCD dashboard, too.

The C4 was also the first Corvette to feature the mono-leaf spring suspension setup, replacing the coils of the C3. An emphasis on handling was important, given the C4 initially made do with just the 205 horsepower 350-ci V-8 engine.

1986 C4 Chevrolet Corvette Indy 500 Pace Car

Big news for the Corvette came in 1986, when Chevrolet relaunched the convertible body for the first time since 1975.

Chosen as the pace car for the 1986 Indianapolis 500, all 7,315 convertible Corvettes sold that year wore a commemorative plaque. For 1987, the convertible became part of the regular range.

1990 C4 Chevrolet Corvette ZR-1

Having acquired Group Lotus in 1986, General Motors opted to use the British firm to help build the ultimate Corvette. Lotus designed a new 350-ci aluminium V-8 engine, with 32 valves and four overhead camshafts.

Output peaked at an impressive 375 horsepower, with 370 lb-ft of torque. This made the ZR-1 capable of 0-60 mph in 4.4 seconds, and on to a top speed of over 175 mph. Chevrolet would set numerous FIA speed and endurance records as testimony to the reliability of the new V-8 engine.

Doubling the $32,479 price of the base C4 Corvette meant numbers sold were low, with around 6,000 ZR-1s sold between 1990 and 1995.

1992 One-millionth Chevrolet Corvette

When the one-millionth Corvette rolled off the production line in 1993, finished in white with a red interior like the 1953 original, it was preserved for posterity. As an exhibit in Chevrolet’s National Corvette Museum it, along with seven other Corvettes, was damaged by a sinkhole that opened up directly beneath the museum floor.

Chevrolet committed to restore the car to original condition, investing four months and 1,200 hours to recreate it perfectly. This even extended to scanning and reproducing the signatures beneath the body panels of those who built the car in 1993.

1993 C4 Chevrolet Corvette 40th Anniversary

Turning 40 is always an excuse for a celebration. To commemorate edging closer to the average age of a Corvette buyer, the 40thAnniversary package was available on all models produced for the 1993 model year.

Ruby Red paintwork was combined with matching leather seats, while the wheels featured red center caps.

1996 C4 Chevrolet Corvette Grand Sport

The final year of C4 Corvette production saw two special editions offered, but the Grand Sport is the most noteworthy. Just 1,000 examples were produced, with all cars finished in Admiral Blue with a white centre stripe, plus black alloy wheels. Two red stripes above the driver’s side fender were intended as a reminder of the 1963 C2 Grand Sport namesake.

Adding to the appeal of the Grand Sport was a 330 horsepower version of the LT4 V-8, offered solely with a manual transmission.

1997 C5 Chevrolet Corvette

With the C4 having restored the image of the Corvette, Chevrolet developed its sports car even further with the fifth-generation C5. Launched for the 1997 model year, an all-new aluminium 5.7-liter LS1 V-8 engine was standard, with 345 horsepower.

The transmission was mounted at the rear to form a transaxle setup, with a new six-speed manual gearbox introduced. Critics took issue with the cheap plastics found inside, but a bargain price of $37,495 something had to give.

1998 C5 Chevrolet Corvette Indy 500 Pace Car

Launched a year later, the C5 convertible was the first soft-top Corvette since 1962 to feature a trunk. The new C5 was also chosen to be the official Indianapolis 500 pace car, gaining a new Radar Blue paint color.

Yellow exterior detailing extended to the interior, with Chevrolet being generous with standard equipment. Dual-zone climate control and a Bose sound system were some of the added extras.

1999 C5 Chevrolet Corvette Hardtop

A third bodystyle option was added to the Corvette in 1999, with Chevrolet launching the hardtop version of the C5. Also known as the Fixed Roof Coupe, it lacked the targa T-top roof of the regular coupe version.

This made it the most structurally rigid of the C5 body types, whilst luggage space was similar to that found in the convertible model.

2001 C5 Chevrolet Corvette Z06

Additional structural rigidity meant that the C5 hardtop was used as the basis for a brand-new Z06 Corvette. Powered by a modified version of the LS1 V-8 engine, renamed to LS6 to recognize the changes, output was rated as 385 horsepower and 385 lb-ft.

A titanium exhaust, thinner glass and even a lighter battery helped save weight. Suspension upgrades and performance tyres made it perform on-track, with a six-speed manual the only transmission offered. Functional brake ducts in front of the rear wheels were a visual clue to the Z06 option.

2001 Chevrolet Corvette C5-R

Having been officially absent from sports car competition for over a decade, Chevrolet took the decision to enter the C5 in global endurance racing. Pratt and Miller were picked to develop the C5 into the C5-R racer, with a first outing at the 1999 24 Hours of Daytona.

Upgrades and modifications turned the C5-R into a dominant GT-class racer, taking wins at Le Mans in 2001, 2002 and 2004. This was also combined with 31 class victories in the American Le Mans Series, along with an overall victory at the 2001 Daytona 24 Hours.

2005 C6 Chevrolet Corvette

As the first Corvette since 1962 to feature exposed headlights, the C6 Corvette was something of a revelation when introduced for 2005. It was also narrower and shorter than the C5 it replaced.

Under the skin, much was carried over from the C5, although there was a new 6.0-liter LS2 V-8 engine, producing a neatly rounded 400 horsepower and 400 lb-ft of torque. The hardtop model version was dropped, with a convertible body appearing late in the 2005 model year.

2006 C6 Chevrolet Corvette Z06

Buoyed by the positive reaction to the C5 Z06, the performance option would feature again for the C6. Billed as the fastest Corvette ever made, an even bigger dry-sump 7.0-liter LS7 V-8 engine was fitted, making 505 horsepower and 470 lb-ft of torque.

The 0-60 mph sprint was done in 3.7 seconds, with the Z06 pushing all the way to a top speed of 198 mph. Carbon fiber was used in the construction of the front bumper and other body parts. Bigger brakes, wider wheels and stiffer suspension rounded out a comprehensive makeover.

2008 C6 Chevrolet Corvette LS3

Following a pattern used since the original C1, the Corvette gained enhanced engines for the 2008 model year, with a new LS3 6.2-liter V-8.

Increased displacement resulted in an improved power output of 430 horsepower. The LS3 was combined with a six-speed manual gearbox, whilst the steering was also improved. Upgraded cars could be spotted by their new five-spoke alloy wheel design.

2009 C6 Chevrolet Corvette ZR1

Surpassing even the Z06 as the ultimate C6, the ZR1 firmly pushed the Corvette into supercar territory. A supercharged 6.2-liter V-8 produced a monstrous 638 hp with 595 lb-ft of torque. The intercooler could be seen lurking beneath a polycarbonate window in the carbon fiber hood.

Carbon ceramic brakes were standard, as were specially developed Michelin Pilot Sport 2 tires on multi-spoke alloy wheels. Carbon fiber featured in the roof panel, front splitter and the widened fenders.

With a top speed of 205 mph and 0-60 mph in 3.3 seconds, the ZR1 was peak C6.

2013 C6 Chevrolet Corvette 427

Billed as the fastest Corvette convertible to date when new, the 427 special edition commemorated the end of C6 production. This fitted neatly with the 60th anniversary of the Corvette’s introduction, too.

Using the 7.0-liter (427-cubic inch) V-8 from the Z06, it had the same 505 hp output. The 0-60 mph sprint was dispatched in 3.8 seconds, with a top speed of more than 190 mph.

The 60th Anniversary package included Arctic White paintwork with optional stripes. Inside, all Corvettes built in 2013 featured a special plaque to mark 60 years of production.

2014 C7 Chevrolet Corvette Stingray

After an absence of more than 30 years, the Stingray name reappeared on the C7 Corvette. General Motors believed the C7 was good enough to wear the iconic badge, even if it lacked a split rear windscreen like the 1963 original.

Intended to appeal to a younger audience, the body of the C7 became more angular, making extensive use of carbon fiber throughout. A new 6.2-liter V-8 engine provided 460 horsepower, and was coupled to a seven-speed manual, or six-speed automatic, transmission.

2014 C7 Chevrolet Corvette Stingray

Following the C7 Stingray coupe, the convertible version was launched at the 2013 Geneva Motor Show. With no additional chassis stiffening required over the coupe, Chevrolet was confident that the soft-top would be on par with the coupe version.

The power-folding roof is capable of operating at speeds up to 31 mph, offering up mobile theatrics.

2015 C7 Chevrolet Corvette Z06

With styling inspired by the C7.R race car, the Z06 was launched as hardcore track-focused machine. It even included a data logger, capable of capturing HD video and telemetry.

A supercharged 6.2-liter V-8 engine, bellowing out 650 horsepower and 650lb ft of torque, made it the most powerful car General Motors had built to date.

Hitting 60 mph in 2.9 seconds, and a top speed of 195 mph, were considerable achievements for a car costing less than $80,000.

2017 C7 Chevrolet Corvette Grand Sport

Continuing the Grand Sport name first used back in 1963, the latest GS combines elements of the Z06 to produce another track-oriented Corvette. It takes the widened bodywork of the Z06, but features the Z51 Performance Pack engine.

This 6.2-liter LT1 V-8 engine means 460 horsepower, and comes with the choice of seven-speed manual or eight-speed automatic transmissions. An optional Z07 Performance Package added Brembo carbon ceramic brakes and Michelin Pilot Sport Cup 2 tires.

2018 C7 Chevrolet Corvette Carbon 65 Edition

Hitting 65-years of Corvette production naturally meant another special edition was on the cards. The Carbon 65 Edition was limited to just 650 examples, and was offered in both Grand Sport and Z06 flavors.

A special Ceramic Matrix Gray paint was used, with stripes for the doors and fenders. Naked carbon fiber was used to create the bespoke body kit, with carbon featuring again for the interior trim.

2019 C7 Chevrolet Corvette ZR1

With the battle for the most powerful American sports car seemingly never ending, the 2019 ZR1 pushed the Corvette to crazier horsepower heights. Unveiled at the 2017 Dubai Auto show, the headlines were grabbed by the giant rear wing and the supercharged 6.2-liter V8 producing 755 horsepower.

A new front bumper helped channel air to the extra radiators, whilst the bodykit was developed with the Pratt & Miller Corvette Racing outfit. Without the optional rear wing, the 2019 ZR1 was capable of a top speed in excess of 212 mph, making it the fastest Corvette created.

2019 C7 Chevrolet Corvette Drivers Series Edition

With Corvette Racing having won more IMSA competition races than any other North American team since 1999, GM believed it was time to celebrate this success in 2019. To do so, it let four Chevrolet Racing drivers design their perfect road-going Corvette.

Tommy Milner, Oliver Gavin, Jan Magnussen and Antonio Garcia all picked the paint and trim combinations they preferred. Buyers could then specify the Drivers Series package they liked most, adding it to almost any Corvette model.

C8 Corvette hidden in plain sight

After years of speculation and rumor, Chevrolet finally made it clear that the next-generation Corvette would be a radical mid-engined machine.

A camouflaged prototype took to the streets of New York City in April 2019. General Motors CEO Mary Barra was chauffeured on the ride by Corvette chief engineer, Tadge Juechter.

Final C7 Corvette Z06 sold at charity auction

Rather than simply slip quietly off the production line, Chevrolet chose to let the final front-engined Corvette go out with a bang. It allowed the last C7 Corvette – a black Z06 – to be auctioned for the Stephen Siller Tunnels to Towers Foundation.

At the Barrett-Jackson Mohegan Sun sale in Connecticut, a record-breaking bid of $2.7 million secured the last C7 Corvette for the lucky buyer.

2020 C8 Chevrolet Corvette Stingray

Arkus-Duntov would surely be proud that the Corvette had finally moved the engine to the middle, decades after he had experimented with the layout. The all-new eight-generation model is a radical step for Chevrolet, but one the company believed had to be taken.

A new 6.2-liter LT2 V-8 engine offers 490 horsepower, increasing to 495 horsepower with the optional Z51 performance package. Also new is a eight-speed dual-clutch transmission, with no manual available.

The C8 will also be offered in right-hand drive for the first time, opening up a wider array of future Corvette owners.

2020 C8 Chevrolet Corvette Stingray Convertible

Chevrolet moved fast to introduce the convertible version of the new Corvette, revealing it in October 2019. It uses a hardtop roof that retracts completely into the body, with tonneau covers said to have been inspired by jet fighters.

With the same LT2 engine as the coupe, Chevrolet promised no performance compromises. The convertible can even do classic Corvette tasks, like carrying two sets of golf clubs.

First 2020 C8 Corvette VIN 0001

Just like the last C7 Corvette went to auction, a charity sale was also arranged for the very first C8 model off the production line. The 2020 Barrett-Jackson Scottsdale auction saw VIN0001 go under the hammer, and achieve an incredible $3 million winning bid.

The lucky bidder was NASCAR team owner Rick Hendrick, with the sale proceeds going to help the Detroit Children’s Fund.

C8R Corvette racer wins three GT Le Mans titles in 2020

A move to a mid-engined layout has clearly done nothing to affect how well the new Corvette performs on the race track. With a modified production chassis from the new Corvette, the C8.R uses a naturally aspirated V-8 engine producing 500 horsepower. Chevrolet states that the new yellow and silver livery pays tribute to classic mid-engined concepts.

The C8.R helped Chevrolet take the 2020 GT Le Mans Manufacturers title in the IMSA WeatherTech SportsCar Championship, along with the GTLM Drivers and Team titles.

2021 C8 Chevrolet Corvette Family

For the 2021 model year, Chevrolet has already made a number of changes and improvements to the C8 Corvette. Red Mist Metallic and Silver Flare Metallic were added as new color options, with a wider choice of interior finishes and exterior stripes.

Chevrolet has also added the important upgrade of wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto smartphone connectivity. Magnetic Ride Control suspension can now be specified independently of the Z51 Performance Package.

Production of the 2021 model is expected to begin on Tuesday, December 8th 2020.

Chevrolet Corvette leads the Indy 500 field… again

Adding further to the Corvette’s lengthy association with the Indy 500, the C8 Convertible was picked to be the official pace car for 2021. Arctic White paintwork may not have been the most flattering color for the C8, but it still became the first convertible to lead the Indy pack since 2008.

The choice of the Corvette made it the 32nd Chevrolet model to undertake pace car duties. Acclaimed former IndyCar driver, and now NBC TV analyst, Danica Patrick drove the Corvette to start the race.

Corvette gets IMSA GTLM Championship Edition for 2022

Chevrolet was rightly proud of how successful the new Corvette C8.R race car was during the 2020 IMSA WeatherTech SportsCar Championship. It should be no surprise that the company revealed plans for a limited edition model for the 2020 model year.

Limited to 1,000 units, two versions are offered, finished in Accelerate Yellow or Hypersonic Gray. A special graphics package, reminiscent of the actual Corvette racers, is included along with a high-wing rear spoiler finished in carbon fiber.

The interior is color-matched to the outside, and each car comes with an indoor car cover that replicates the GLTM racers.

2022 Chevrolet Corvette gets updates for 2022

Along with launching the IMSA GTLM Championship Edition, Chevrolet has also made subtle updates to the Corvette for 2022.

This includes the option of three new paint colors: Hypersonic Gray, Amplify Orange, and Caffeine. Buyers can now specify a deeper front splitter without the Z51 Performance Package, and opt for a low-level rear wing.

Although power output from the 6.2-liter V-8 remains unchanged, Chevrolet has upgraded the fuel injection system and updated the Active Fuel Management.

2023 Chevrolet Corvette Z06 Revealed

Chevrolet has used the highly successful C8.R Corvette racing car as the inspiration for the impressive new Z06. The same chassis underpins both machines, with Chevrolet describing the C8.R as the “Z06 hiding in plain sight”.

A wider stance than the regular Stingray accommodates gigantic 345-series rear tires, with bespoke bumpers added front and rear. An adjustable rear spoiler is aimed at offering improved track performance, with an optional Z07 package available for those who need ultimate circuit ability.

Buyers will also be able to specify wheels made from carbon fiber, while the Magnetic Ride suspension is configured specifically for the Z06. Upgraded brakes are standard, with optional carbon ceramic Brembo units also available.

2023 C8 Chevrolet Corvette Z06 LT6 Engine

At the heart of the Z06 is a brand-new mid-mounted 5.5-liter LT6 V-8 engine. Used in the C8.R race cars since 2019, the LT6 features a flat-plane crankshaft design typically found in exotic sports cars.

This helps the naturally aspirated V-8 rev all the way to 8,600 rpm, and gives the Z06 a distinctive engine sound. Like other C8 Corvette models, an eight-speed dual-clutch unit is the only transmission offered.

Peak power is an astonishing 670 horsepower, with 460 lb-ft of torque. According to Chevrolet, this makes it the highest-horsepower, naturally-aspirated, V-8 engine to be fitted to any production car.

2023 C8 Chevrolet Corvette Z06 Interior

Z06 buyers will gain access to a unique interior, featuring extensive use of lightweight carbon fiber material throughout. The steering wheel includes carbon fiber elements, along with the gear shift paddles and numerous other trim elements.

A total of seven interior colors are available, including the new Adrenaline Red leather. Twelve colors can be picked for the exterior, with seven different wheel packages on offer.

It all allows for almost endless customization options, meaning no two Corvette Z06s should leave the Bowling Green factory alike.

2023 C8 Chevrolet Corvette Z06 Family

Chevrolet will offer the new Corvette Z06 in both coupe and hardtop convertible specifications. The structural rigidity is said to be so stiff that no suspension changes are needed for the open-top model.

With the Corvette’s new global strategy, the Z06 will be sold in both left- and right-hand drive configuration when production begins in summer 2022.

Chevrolet Corvette wins Japanese Performance Car of the Year

Proving the success of Chevrolet’s worldwide sales plan for the C8 Corvette is seeing it win prestigious awards across the globe.

As part of the 2021-22 Japanese Car of the Year Awards, the new Corvette scooped the prize for being the top performance car on sale.

Being offered in right-hand drive was cited as a factor in the judge’s decision making, along with the 495 horsepower V-8 engine, of course.

2023 C8 Chevrolet Corvette 70th Anniversary

With the Corvette set to hit an amazing 70 years in production, the 2023 model year will help celebrate this major achievement. A special 70th Anniversary Edition package will be offered for both the regular Corvette and Z06 version, including bespoke extras and paint options.

Buyers will be able to pick from White Pearl Metallic Tri-coat or Carbon Flash Metallic, with optional exterior stripes. New wheels will wear a dark finish and Edge Red stripe, with the brake calipers also painted red.

Commemorative 70th Anniversary badging can be found inside and out, with buyers also receiving a logoed custom luggage set.

All 2023 Corvettes will gain a 70th Anniversary interior plaque, regardless of whether buyers pick the optional package.

First 2023 Corvette Z06 70th Anniversary sells big at auction

Full production of the Corvette 70th Anniversary has begun. However, the very first Z06 version set to leave the line was auctioned at the 2022 Barrett-Jackson Scottsdale Auction.

NASCAR team owner, and famed car collector, Rick Hendrick was the winning bidder again. He paid an incredible $3.6 million for the right to own the Z06 70th Anniversary with VIN 0001.

All the proceeds from the huge winning bid will be sent to Operation Homefront. The national nonprofit organization is focused on building strong, stable and secure military families.

2024 C8 Chevrolet Corvette E-Ray Hybrid

Demonstrating ingenuity that Zora Arkus-Duntov would surely have approved of, the Corvette E-Ray is a radical new addition to the range.

It combines the existing mid-mounted 6.2-liter LT2 V-8 engine with a front-mounted 160 horsepower electric motor. The result is a combined output of 655 horsepower with the engine and electric motor working together, making the E-Ray almost as powerful as the Z06.

The new powertrain also creates the first all-wheel-drive Corvette, aiding traction and making the E-Ray well-suited to all weather conditions. Both coupe and convertible versions will be offered.

2024 C8 Chevrolet Corvette E-Ray Hybrid

Chevrolet announced the Corvette E-Ray exactly 70 years to the day since the original ‘Vette made its 1953 Motorama debut. A special birthday present, the E-Ray also becomes the quickest accelerating street-legal Corvette ever made.

The 0-60 mph sprint takes just 2.5 seconds, with a standing quarter-mile dispatched in 10.5 seconds. However, with Stealth Mode engaged, the E-Ray can also travel up to 45 mph on pure electric power.

Unlike some hybrid sports cars, the Corvette E-Ray is ‘self-charging’ – i.e. it doesn’t need to be plugged in. The 1.9 kWh battery, mounted between the seats, is replenished by regenerative braking alone.

2024 C8 Chevrolet Corvette E-Ray Hybrid

On the outside, the E-Ray makes use of the same widened body as the Corvette Z06. This allows for fitment of wider wheels to better control the extra torque of the electrified drivetrain. Buyers can specify the E-Ray with an exclusive ‘Electric Blue’ body stripe.

For the interior, Chevrolet has added new Charge+ and Stop/Start buttons on the center console. The infotainment system gains a new E-Ray Performance App, showing additional information about the hybrid system.

Despite the addition of the eAWD system, the Corvette E-Ray retains its front luggage compartment.

More than a million for first Corvette E-Ray Hybrid

As has become tradition, Chevrolet sold the very first production Corvette E-Ray through a Barrett-Jackson auction. Raising money for the DonorsChose non-profit education organization, the E-Ray went under the hammer at Palm Beach.

Perhaps unsurprisingly, GM collector and NASCAR team owner Rick Hendrick was (again) the winning bidder. He paid a substantial $1.1 million to claim the first electrified Corvette, adding it to his stable of ‘VIN 001’ cars.

Chevrolet Corvette C8.R wins 24 Hours of Le Mans Centenary

Corvette Racing has enjoyed considerable success at the 24 Hours of Le Mans. Although the C8.R claimed several wins almost instantly, it took until 2023 for the eighth-generation Corvette to take victory at the iconic endurance event.

The number 33 Corvette Racing C8.R, driven by Nicky Catsburg, Ben Keating and Nicolas Varrone, claimed the LMGTE Am class win at the 2023 24 Hours of Le Mans.

Being the 100th edition of the Le Mans race no doubt made this particular title even sweeter.

Corvette C8.R claims 2023 World Endurance Championship title

Along with winning the 24 Hours of Le Mans in 2023, the no.33 Corvette Racing team collected two other race victories in the World Endurance Championship.

Winning the 1,000 Miles of Sebring and Six Hours of Portimao, combined with its Le Mans success, gave the Corvette C8.R an almost unassailable lead. Two more podium finishes cemented the car’s position.

This saw Nicky Catsburg, Ben Keating and Nicolas Varrone take the LMGTE Am Drivers’ title with two rounds still remaining. Corvette Racing took home the FIA Endurance Trophy for LMGTE Am Teams.

Corvette E-Ray makes virtual debut in Forza Motorsport

Corvettes have been a feature of the Forza Motorsport series of Microsoft Xbox video games since the franchise began in 2005.

For the latest edition of Forza Motorsport, the 2024 Corvette E-Ray hybrid gained cover-star status alongside the Cadillac V-Series.R race car.

Harlan Charles, product marketing manager for the Chevrolet Corvette, said: “We are excited to see the first customer impressions of Corvette E-Ray, both in real life and through Forza Motorsport, being shared at the same time”.

Chevrolet Corvette Z06 GT3.R aims to keep winning in 2024

For 2024, Corvette Racing will retire the C8.R racer in favor of the new Z06 GT3.R. With GTE-specification cars no longer being used in endurance competitions, a new GT3 model was needed.

The Corvette Z06 GT3.R will compete in the GTD Pro category of the IMSA WeatherTech SportsCar Championship with Corvette Racing. Its competition debut should come at the Rolex 24 at Daytona in 2024.

TF Sport will use the Z06 GT3.R in the World Endurance Championship, with another team expected to enter the GT World Challenge America.

Given the success of the Corvette in motorsport across the last seven decades, we fully expect more wins to follow.