America’s Sports Car – Ask any Corvette owner and they will tell you that they love the feeling of starting that engine and getting out onto the road. The ease of maneuvering, accompanied by incredible performance output and power, gives you a rush every time you are in the driver’s seat and makes you proud to be the owner of such an iconic vehicle. With the combination of performance and attractive design, the Corvette’s popularity is seemingly everlasting. The two-passenger, two-door, luxury sports car has endured many changes with every generation over the last 68 years and we are excited about the long-awaited release of the 2023 C8 Z06 Corvette. Before we get there though, let’s check out the timeline leading up to the anticipated C8.
C1- In 1953, Chevrolet introduced what has now become one of the true collectible cars of our time. The C1 Corvettes were produced featuring a 235 cu. in. (3.85L) inline six engine, with an output of 150 HP and a two-speed Powerglide transmission that got you 0-60 in 11.5 seconds. The C1 was constructed with a “Polo White” fiberglass body, red interior, and a black canvas soft top and was predominantly hand built in a factory in Flint, Michigan. Only 300 were made and about 200 are still in existence around the world today. The C1 run lasted from 1953-1962.
C2 – The introduction of the “Stingray” was a game changer. Production occurred from 1963 until 1967. The first and only year in which a split window convertible would be offered was 1963 and it remains one of the most popular vehicles among collectors today.
C3 – The C3 remains a heavy collector’s item with its “shark” shape. Production began in 1968 and lasted until 1982.
Fun Fact: Just over 40 1983 Corvettes went into production; however, none were ever sold. The one and only Corvette from 1983 that remains, was retired and is now on display at the National Corvette Museum in Bowling Green, Kentucky. It is listed as #23.
C4 – The largest production run for GM would be the C4 and would stretch from 1984-1996. Redesigned and more practical, the C4 was equipped with a glass hatchback for storage and an electric dashboard displaying RPM’s, speed and other engine functions.
C5 – Production of the C5 ran from 1997-2004. The C5 has a long-standing reputation for value, performance and low maintenance costs.
C6 – From 2005 to 2013, the C6 Corvette was the choice model and would be the first Corvette with exposed headlights since the 1962 C2 model. Production variants included the Z06, ZR1, Grand Sport, and 427 Convertible.
C7 – The 2014 Corvette was the first Corvette to bear the name “Stingray”, since the 1976 C3 model. Production of the C7 lasted from 2014-2019 and featured an aggressive and angular appearance, with a squared-off rear end and non-round, trapezoidal tail lights.
C8 – Introduced in 2020, the C8 is the first mid-engine Corvette since the model’s introduction in 1953. It features all-new aluminum architecture and coil-over springs in place of leaf springs used on prior models and features aggressive body features. The latest is the 2023 C8 Z06 and features a hand built, flat plane crank 670 HP V8, detuned version of the C8.R racecar engine and runs 0-60 in 2.6 seconds, redlining at 8000 rpms. The C8 Z06 is equipped with wider fenders and quarter panels, a replaceable spoiler wicker bill, rear brake cooling ducts and a removable front fascia panel. In addition, it has front underwing stall gurneys to increase downforce, keeping you tucked and tight as you make your rounds on the road or track. The 2023 C8 will feature 6 trim levels including the 1LZ-3LZ convertible and the 1LZ-3LZ coupe.
Reviewing the Corvette’s history and its success through the years, we can see how and why the brand has built its successful reputation. The combination of elite handling, acceleration and speed, accompanied by its aggressive appearance keeps us wanting more. Whether you’re seeking out a classic model or the latest edition, there are numerous options available for any auto enthusiast to choose from. Thanks for taking the time to check out a little bit of Corvette history!
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