Author: David Harned

Pricing: $55,500 (Coupe), $65,590 (Conv.), $65,500 (Grand sport)

Engine options:  6.2L LT1 V8 455-hp, supercharged 650-horsepower 6.2L LT4 V8,  755-horsepower 6.2L LT5 V8

Transmission: 7-speed manual, 8-speed automatic

Top speed: 195mph

Units produced: 9,731

Available colors: Long Beach Red Metallic Tintcoat, Sebring Orange Tintcoat, Arctic White, Ceramic Matrix Gray Metallic, Blade Silver Metallic, Black, Corvette Racing Yellow Tintcoat, Shadow Gray Metallic, Torch Red, Elkhart Lake Blue Metallic

Highlights of the year:

Despite being six model years into its lifecycle, the seventh-generation Chevy Corvette is still going strong. Chevy has rolled out a number of variants with the Corvette ZR1 following the Corvette Grand Sport following the Corvette Z06 which followed the Corvette Stingray (one word for the C7). Each version offers something a little different, from the affordable punch of the base car to the gut-churning performance of the ZR1.

Performance is the Corvette’s calling card, and it’s baked in from the base model all the way up the lineup.  The 2019 Stingray is still the essential Corvette. Every aspect of this car is intelligently managed, from how it uses airflow for cooling and downforce to how it produces extraordinary performance with surprising efficiency. One Balanced Performer – Thanks to its incredible precision, power, and balance, Corvette stingray provides your daily dose of driving joy. Its 6.2L small block V8 puts out 460 horsepower and 465 lb.-ft. of torque with the available performance exhaust or the available Z51 Performance Package. Along with the Stingray, Grand Sport also boasts a 455-horsepower 6.2-liter V-8 that launches the cars to a 0-60 mph time as low as 3.6 seconds.

While the base Corvette handles well, a Z51 package stiffens the suspension, upgrades the brakes, tweaks the aerodynamics, and adds an electronically controlled limited-slip differential to improve performance and track endurance. The Grand Sport features a wider rear end to fit larger high-performance tires that ramp up the grip. Aero improvements and Z06 suspension components also improve the Grand Sport’s track resume.

Propelled by a powerful LT1 V8, it comes with a Dry-Sump Oil system and Z06 Stabilizer Bars and Springs. Brakes are 6-piston fronts with 14.6-inch slotted rotors and 4-piston rears with 14.4-inch slotted rotors. This engine includes a dry-sump oil system that pumps oil from a separate reservoir for better oil distribution in high-g situations. A front splitter, special rockers, and a rear spoiler with wickers are standard. The available Z07 Performance Package includes carbon-ceramic brake rotors and Michelin Pilot Sport Cup 2 summer-only tires.

A wider track, Grand Sport-specific wheels, and the Grand Sport badge ensure it has a look all on its own.  With its aggressive, wide body, Grand Sport would look right at home on the grid at Sebring. Fender vents have a signature side cove that includes the Grand Sport Badge. Grand Sport offers a special Heritage Package that includes fender hash marks, brushed-aluminum interior hash marks, and floor mats with a Grand Sport logo.

The new ZR1 is even crazier. Its version of the supercharged 6.2-liter V-8 turns up the heat to 755 hp and 715 lb-ft of torque. The ZR1 offers a ZTK package with a big rear wing and an even stiffer suspension. The ZR1 is even quicker than the Z06 and it tops out at 212 mph. Both put up numbers to rival supercars.

All Corvettes offer a 7-speed manual transmission with downshift rev-matching or a quick-shifting 8-speed automatic with paddle shifters.

The Corvette’s interior is large enough for a pair of sizable adults. They sit on supportive base seats and track-ready sport buckets are available. The hatchback body style offers about as much cargo space as a sedan’s trunk. The convertible’s trunk is larger than that of other droptops and its power soft top opens or closes at speeds up to 30 mph.

Once inside, occupants will find the Corvette is well-equipped. It comes standard with leather upholstery, an 8.0-inch touchscreen infotainment system, a nine-speaker Bose audio system, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility, and a wi-fi hotspot. The available Performance Data Recorder can record video, lap times, and various telemetry data that owners can use for bragging purposes

Photos of the 2019 Corvette:

Sources:

https://www.corvettemuseum.org/learn/about-corvette/corvette-specs/2019-corvette-specs/
https://www.thecarconnection.com/overview/chevrolet_corvette_2019
https://www.corvsport.com/2019-c7-corvette-image-gallery/

Pricing: $56,445 (coupe), $60,445 (Conv.), $66,445 (Grand sport)

Engine options:

• Grandsport: LT1 V8 engine rated at (343 kW) 460 hp
• Stingray: 6.2-liter V8 making 455 hp and 460 foot-pounds of torque
• Z06: supercharged 6.2-liter making 650 horsepower and 650 foot-pounds of torque

Transmission: 7-speed manual, 8-speed automatic

Top speed: 195mph

Units produced: 25,079

Available colors: Admiral Blue, Arctic White, Black, Blade Silver Metallic, Sterling Blue Metallic, Torch Red, Watkins Glen Gray Metallic, Black Rose Metallic, Corvette Racing Yellow Tintcoat, Long Beach Red Metallic Tintcoat

Highlights of the year:

The new Grand Sport builds on a legacy established in 1963 when five Grand Sport race cars were built under the direction of the Corvette’s first chief engineer, Zora Arkus-Duntov. The 2017 Corvette Grand Sport came well equipped from Chevrolet, and feature a number of options that were specifically designed for the track, including:

• Michelin Pilot Super Sport summer tires: 285/30ZR19 (front) and 335/25ZR20 (rear).
• Specific Grand Sport wheel design: 19×10 inches (front) and 20×12 inches (rear).
• Brembo brake system with (355 mm) 14-inch rotors and six-piston calipers in front and (340 mm) 13.4-inch rotors and four-piston calipers in the rear.
• Standard magnetic ride control, specific stabilizer bars and unique springs.
• A standard electronic limited-slip differential.
• The LT1 V8 engine rated at (343 kW) 460 hp, with a dry-sump oiling system and active exhaust.
• A seven-speed manual transmission with active rev match, or an available eight-speed paddle-shift automatic with specific performance calibration.
• The available Z07 package featured carbon ceramic-matrix brakes and Michelin Pilot Sport 2 Cup tires.

Except for the Grand Sport, the 2017 Corvette is relatively unchanged.

Under the hood of the Stingray is the latest performance small-block, a 6.2-liter LT1 V-8 generating 455 hp and 460 lb-ft of torque, or 5 hp more in performance trim.  In comparison, Z06 ups the ante with a supercharged LT4 V-8 displacing 6.2 liters that’s rated at 650 hp and 650 lb-ft of torque. A 7-speed manual is standard with both engines, offering an automatic rev-matching downshift function that was enhanced for 2015. The Corvette can also be fitted with a quick-shifting, in-house-designed, and built 8-speed automatic with steering-wheel-mounted paddle shifters.

The Z51 package includes lighter wheels, bigger brakes, more extreme aerodynamic bits, an electronic limited-slip differential, dry-sump oil system, an oil cooler for the differential and transmission, and stiffer shocks, springs and anti-roll bars.

The Z06 package also includes Brembo carbon-ceramic brakes, adjustable front and rear aero components, and Michelin Pilot Super Sport Cup 2 tires.

Adjustable ride control settings are available with the Magnetic Selective Ride Control option, enabling various levels of ride comfort and performance. The magnetic ride suspension is available without the Z51 package and comes bundled with the Z51’s rear spoiler and wheels.

All Corvettes have power features, Bluetooth, a rearview camera, and a fully wrapped interior for a more premium look than in years past. Keep spending, and the Corvette gets much better interior trim—nappa leather, aluminum, carbon fiber, and micro-suede. The killer app it offers is primed for track days: a performance data recorder keeps video tabs on how you’re doing, complete with lap times—or can be used as a valet-security device that grabs the most recent video clips in case the car is involved in an accident.

Photos of the 2017 Corvette:

Sources:

https://www.corvsport.com/2017-c7-corvette/
https://www.corvettemuseum.org/learn/about-corvette/corvette-specs/2017-corvette-specs/
https://www.thecarconnection.com/overview/chevrolet_corvette_2017
https://www.autoblog.com/buy/2017-Chevrolet-Corvette/expert-review/
https://www.corvsport.com/2017-c7-corvette-image-gallery/

Pricing:

• $79,400 (Z06 coupe), $83,400  (Z06 Conv.),
• $55,400 (Corvette Stingray Coupe),  $59,400 (Corvette Stingray Conv.)
• $60,400 (Z51 Coupe),  $64,400 (Z51- Convertible) .

Engine options:

• Stingray: 6.2-liter V8 making 455 hp and 460 foot-pounds of torque
• Z06: supercharged 6.2-liter making 650 horsepower and 650 foot-pounds of torque

Transmission: 7-speed manual, 8-speed automatic

Top speed: 195mph

Units produced:  29,995

Available colors: Black, Arctic White, Torch Red, Blade Silver Metallic, Shark Gray Metallic, Night Race Blue Metallic, Daytona Sunrise Orange Metallic, (Premium), Laguna Blue Tintcoat (Premium), Long Beach Red Metallic Tintcoat (Premium), Corvette Racing Yellow Tintcoat (Premium)

Highlights of the year:

America’s sports car continues into 2016 with a choice of four models—two engines, each available in coupe and convertible bodies. From a base Stingray to a supercar-baiting Z06 convertible, you’ll find the Corvette range to offer some of the very best bang for the buck in the industry.

The 2016 Corvette is available with two engines and as a coupe or convertible. The Stingray uses a 6.2-liter V8 making 455 hp and 460 foot-pounds of torque, and can accelerate from 0 to 60 in 3.8 seconds. The Z06 uses a supercharged 6.2-liter making 650 horsepower and 650 foot-pounds of torque; with the 7-speed manual transmission the Z06 can accelerate 0-60 in 3.2 seconds, and with the 8-speed automatic it can do it in an eye-popping 2.95 seconds.

And the 2016 Corvettes continue to spit out eye-popping performance numbers. The Stingray’s 455-hp V-8 offers plenty of push to accelerate the car, hitting 60 mph in just 3.8 seconds with the manual—or 3.7 seconds with the 8-speed automatic. Quarter-mile times are a mere 11.9 seconds with the automatic or 12.0 with the 7-speed manual. Whether tackling the straights or the curves, the Stingray offers ample performance, with surprising grip, nimble reflexes, and a great deal of communication through the seat, pedals, and steering wheel, all of which inspires driver confidence. A Z51 package is available to further enhance the Stingray’s performance, with modified aero, lighter wheels, and bigger brakes among its features.

The Performance Traction Management system helps the driver control the car at race speeds. Even with the electronic aids shut down, the Stingray shows off remarkable poise and balance. Flat cornering, over 1 g of lateral grip, nimble reflexes, and accurate electric power steering yield satisfying times for the enthusiast. The Stingray transmits feedback to the driver so it’s easy to feel what the car is doing.

If that weren’t enough, a Z51 package is available to make the Stingray’s performance even hotter. It includes lighter wheels, bigger brakes, an electronic rear differential, adjustable dampers, and tweaked aerodynamics including a rear spoiler. The Magnetic Ride Control is available on Stingrays without the whole Z51 package, along with the wheels and spoiler.

The seventh-generation Vette’s styling has gone in a new direction while taking advantage of familiar themes, both inside and out. Sharp lines, crisp angles, and vents aplenty give a definite supercar air to the design that matches the car’s performance. It’s wide, low, and looks fast even when standing still. Inside, the Stingray’s design is much improved over the previous generation of the Corvette, with a refreshing and surprisingly luxurious look. The Z06 adds to the Stingray’s exterior and interior design with wider fenders, an array of aerodynamic add-ons, and a performance-themed cabin treatment.

All Corvette trims get a fully wrapped interior, where every surface is covered with premium, soft-touch materials. Available materials, depending on the trim level, include Napa leather, aluminum, carbon fiber, and micro-suede. Customers also have two seating choices: a regular GT seat and a Competition Sport seat with more aggressive side bolstering for greater support on the track.

For 2016, both Stingray and Z06 coupes and convertibles receive several feature enhancements, additional options, and available design packages to keep things fresh. New exterior colors include Corvette Racing Yellow and Long Beach Red Metallic, which replace Velocity Yellow and Crystal Red from the previous model year. The three design packages are the Spice Red, Twilight Blue, and Jet Black Suede, each with an interior in the hue denoted by their name along with many unique exterior details like painted trim, stripes, wheels, and different top colors for convertibles. The latches on convertible trunks and coupe hatches all get a power-cinching feature to pull them down, steering wheels get a flat-bottom design, and a new front curb-view camera will be available. Chevy is also offering Magnetic Ride Control on Stingrays without the Z51 package and will include the Z51 wheels and rear spoiler on those cars. The Z06 will be offered in a limited-run C7.R Edition package, painted Corvette Racing Yellow and trimmed to resemble the brand’s eponymous race cars; 500 will be built in a mix of coupes and convertibles.

Photos of the 2016 Corvette:

Sources:

https://www.autoblog.com/buy/2016-Chevrolet-Corvette/expert-review/
https://www.corvsport.com/2016-c7-corvette-image-gallery/
https://www.thecarconnection.com/overview/chevrolet_corvette_2016

Pricing: $53,000 (Coupe), $58,000 (Z51 coupe), $58,000, (convertible),  $63,000 (Z51 Convertible), Z06

Engine: V8 6.2 Liter

Transmission: Tremec 7 Speed Manual transmission(TR6070), eight-speed automatic transmission

Top speed: 186mph

Units produced: 8,653

Available colours: Arctic White, Black, Blade Silver Metallic, Crystal Red, Tintcoat, Daytona Sunrise Orange Metallic, Laguna Blue Tricoat, Night Race, Blue Metallic, Shark Grey Metallic, Torch Red, and Velocity Yellow Tricoat

Highlights of the year: 

With an all-new Z06 supercar version joining the Stingray, there’s a coupe or convertible version of the 2015 Chevrolet Corvette to suit a wide range of performance and styling appetites. Whichever flavor you choose, you’ll find the Corvette range to offer some of the very best bang for the buck in the industry.

The 2015 model is the first Corvette Z06 to offer a supercharged engine, an automatic transmission and, thanks to a stronger aluminum frame, a removable roof panel. The new, supercharged 6.2L engine is expected to deliver at least 625 horsepower (466 kW), and can be matched with either a seven-speed manual or an all-new, high-performance eight-speed automatic transmission with paddle shifters for manual control. The aluminum frame carries over from the Corvette Stingray and will be used essentially unchanged for the Corvette Racing C7.R.

A track-focused Z07 Performance Package adds unique components for true aerodynamic downforce, Michelin Pilot Super Sport Cup tires for enhanced grip, and Brembo carbon ceramic-matrix brake rotors that improve braking performance and contribute to greater handling through reduced unsprung weight. Although development testing is ongoing, the Z07 package has already recorded some of the fastest lap times ever for a Corvette, surpassing even the ZR1.

The new transmission is the highlight of the technical updates to the 2015 Corvette Stingray, and it aims for the strongest competition on the non-manual market: Porsche’s PDK. Chevrolet claims the new 8-speed executes shifts a full 80 milliseconds quicker than the German dual-clutch unit, measured from the time the driver requests the shift to the time it’s actually executed. That’s a small fraction of a second, but it can make a big difference when driving a very fast car at the limit. Both the Stingray and the Z06 will be available with a choice of 7-speed manual or the new 8-speed automatic.

These technologies – combined with the fuel-efficient multi-speed transmissions, aerodynamic design and lightweight construction – help make the new Z06 surprisingly fuel-efficient.

Styling takes the Corvette in new directions, even if around familiar themes, both inside and out. Sharp lines, crisp angles, and vents aplenty give a definite supercar air to the design that matches the car’s performance. It’s wide, low, and looks fast even at a dead stop. Inside, the Stingray’s design is much improved over the previous generation of the Corvette, and while nothing changes in the standard model for the 2015 model year, it retains its refreshing and surprisingly luxurious look. The Z06 adds to the Stingray’s exterior and interior design with wider fenders, an array of aerodynamic add-ons, and a performance-themed cabin treatment.

The interior of the 2015 Corvette Stingray carries forward the substantial upgrades from the C6 launched last year. Improved materials, more modern design, and significant upgrades to technology such as the Drive Mode Selector and latest-generation Chevy MyLink infotainment help bring the Corvette on par with European and Japanese offerings in the highly competitive, but relatively low-volume super sports car segment.

All Corvette trims get a fully-wrapped interior, where every surface is covered with premium, soft-touch materials. Available materials, depending on the trim level, include Napa leather, aluminum, carbon fiber and micro-suede. Customers also have two seating choices: a regular GT seat and a Competition Sport seat with more aggressive side bolstering for greater support on the track.

Photos of the 2015 Corvette:

Sources:

https://www.corvsport.com/2015-c7-corvette/
https://www.thecarconnection.com/overview/chevrolet_corvette_2015
https://www.corvettemuseum.org/learn/about-corvette/corvette-specs/2015-corvette-specs/
https://www.corvsport.com/2015-c7-corvette-image-gallery/

Type: Coupe, Convertible, Z06 Coupe, 427 Collector Edition Convertible, Grand Sport Coupe, Grand Sport Convertible, ZR1 Coupe

Pricing: $44,995.00 (Coupe), $52,910.00 (Convertible), $66,955.00 (Indy. Conv.), $70,000.00 (Z06), $77,500.00 (Ron Fellows ZO6)

Engine options: 376 C.I. (6.2L) LS3 Engine (Coupe, Convertible and Grand Sport), 427 C.I. (7.0L) LS7 Engine (Z06), 376 C.I. (6.2L) LS9 Engine (ZR1)

Transmission: 6 Speed Manual Transmission, 6 Speed Paddle Shift Automatic Transmission

Top speed: 205mph

Available colors: Arctic White, Blade Silver Metallic, Inferno Orange Metallic, Velocity Yellow Tintcoat, Torch Red, Supersonic Blue Metallic, Cyber Gray, Crystal Red Tintcoat, Black and Night Race Blue Metallic.

Highlights of the year:

As with other anniversary years before it, the sixtieth-anniversary Corvettes marked another milestone year for the car, and Chevrolet certainly took a moment to recognize the Corvette with a special edition package available on all variants of the 2013 Corvette.  Available to consumers are Regular Production Option (RPO) Z25, the 60th Anniversary Design Package featured a Corvette finished in an Arctic White exterior, a Blue Diamond leather-wrapped interior with blue stitching, specific interior and exterior identifiers – including the “60th” logo on the wheel center caps, steering wheel and seat head restraints, suede accents for the steering wheel shifter, parking brake, armrests and doors, a ZR1-style spoiler, a blue top for the convertible models, and gray-painted brake calipers.  For those looking to add even more dynamic elements to the car, the optional RPO Z30 could also be integrated into the sixtieth-anniversary Corvettes which added full-length racing stripes in Pearl Silver Blue and tonal convertible top stripes stitched into the convertible top, thereby extending the graphic theme over the roof.

All 2013 Corvettes, even those purchased without the 60th Anniversary Design Package, received special “60th Anniversary” badges on the front and rear fascias and on the “waterfall” panel on convertible models.  On the interior of the car, the “60th” logos were also added to the instrument panel gauge cluster and on the sill plates.   Additionally, the 2013 Corvette also featured some optional upgrades including available black-painted five-spoke aluminum wheels, designed specifically to both the base Corvette coupe/convertible and Grand Sport models, as well as an optional ZR-1 style rear spoiler that could be integrated into the coupe/convertible and Grand Sport models.  For 2013, the only new paint color was Night Race Blue Metallic.

As with previous model years, the 2013 Corvette was available to consumers in five distinct body styles. The standard coupe and convertible models, which were powered by the 430-horsepower LS3 V-8 engine (436-horsepower when equipped with the optional exhaust. The Grand Sport models – also offered in both a couple and convertible – which combined the Corvette’s powertrain with wide-body styling, a wider track and a racking-bred suspension for a distinctive model that delivered greater handling performance than the base coupe/convertible. The Grand Sport also comes equipped with wider wheels and tires, revised shocks, stabilizer bar and spring specifications, and specific gearing intended for performance driving.

The 427 Convertible Collector Edition which included a hand-built, 505-horsepower LS7 engine, which was the first time an LS7 engine was offered in a convertible.

The Corvette 427 Convertible blended elements of the Z06 and ZR1 models to create the fastest and most-capable convertible in Corvette’s history.

Its heart is the 427-cubic-inch (7.0L) LS7 engine from the Corvette Z06. Rated at 505 horsepower (377 kW) and 470 lb.-ft. of torque (637 Nm), it is the most powerful engine ever installed in a production Corvette convertible – and, like the Z06, the 427 Convertible is only available with a six-speed manual transmission.

The LS7 was co-developed with the Corvette Le Mans-winning GT1 engine and features lightweight titanium connecting rods and intake valves, as well as racing-inspired high-flow cylinder heads and a dry-sump oiling system. It is assembled by hand at GM’s Performance Build Center, where customers who purchase the 427 Convertible Collector Edition can purchase the Corvette Build Experience option and assemble the engine that will power their new car.

Photos of the 2013 Corvette:

Sources:

https://www.edmunds.com/chevrolet/corvette/2013/pictures/
https://www.corvsport.com/2013-c6-corvette/
https://www.corvettemuseum.org/learn/about-corvette/corvette-specs/2013-corvette-specs/
https://media.gm.com/media/us/en/chevrolet/vehicles/corvette/2013.html#:~:text=Exterior%20colors%20include%20Arctic%20White,%2C%20yellow%2C%20silver%20and%20gray.

Type: Two Door Coupe, Two Door Convertible, Grand Sport Coupe, Grand Sport Convertible, Z06 Coupe, ZR1 Coupe

Pricing: $50,500.00 (Coupe), $55,500.00 (Convertible), $56,900.00 (Grand Sport Coupe), $60,500.00 (Grand Sport Convertible), $76,500.00 (Z06 Coupe), $112,500.00 (ZR1 Coupe)

Engine options: 376 C.I. (6.2L) LS3 Engine (Coupe, Convertible and Grand Sport), 427 C.I. (7.0L) LS7 Engine (Z06), 376 C.I. (6.2L) LS9 Engine (ZR1)

Transmission: 6 Speed Manual Transmission, 6 Speed Paddle Shift Automatic Transmission

Top speed: 198mph (Z06), 205mph (ZR1)

Units Produced: 11,647

Available Colors: Arctic White, Blade Silver, Inferno Orange, Velocity Yellow, Cyber Gray, Carbon Flash, Torch Red, Crystal Red, Supersonic Blue, Carlisle Blue

Highlights of the year:

Chevrolet unveiled several new racing variants of the beloved Corvette, including both a newer GT contender as well as a Daytona Prototype class Corvette.  These cars, developed in conjunction with their production model counterparts, would further demonstrate the fusion between the engineers designing these cars and the people operating them – both on the road and the racetrack.

For the 2012 model year, Chevrolet decided to listen to the public before making changes to the car, even with the certainty that the C6 model was going to be replaced by a seventh-generation Corvette within the next couple of years.  Many of the changes made to the 2012 Corvette were in response to the criticisms that GM had received from owners of earlier model-year C6 Corvettes, and almost all of the changes were made to the car’s interior.

Inside the lightly revised two-person cabin, the steering wheel has been enhanced with model-specific badges, the center console and armrests further padded and there is now contrasting stitching (red, blue or yellow) offered with the custom leather-wrapped interior. Chevrolet has also directed some much-needed attention to the seats, which have been upgraded with larger bolsters on the back and side cushion areas. This technology package also included a refined heads-up display, navigation system with voice recognition, the Bose premium audio package (included standard with the 2LT package), a one-year subscription to SiriusXM satellite radio, USB iPod connection and input jacks and Bluetooth phone connectivity.

Last year, the Corvette ZR1 was delivered with Michelin Pilot Sport PS2 tires. With a “maximum performance summer” classification (treadwear rating of 220), the well-respected rubber delivered impressive handling. For 2012, Chevrolet has cranked things up several notches by offering the optional High-Performance package (PDE ZR1) featuring new Michelin Pilot Sport Cup Zero Pressure tires. The “track and competition” classified compound (with a treadwear rating of just 80!)  was optimized for warm, dry conditions to increase cornering and handling capability. They are “… essentially street-legal versions of a racing tire,” says the automaker. The insanely wide tires (285/30R19 and 335/25R20) came wrapped around all-new staggered-size alloy wheels that were each about five pounds lighter than last year’s 20-spoke wheel.

The changes made to the 2012MY were minimal once you take into consideration that everything under the hood remained completely untouched. The Z06 version still gets a 7.0 Liter V8 engine that delivers a total of 505 hp at 6300 rpm and 470 lb.-ft. of torque at 4800 rpm. The ZR1 version will use the same 6.2 Liter LS9 aluminum-block V8 engine with a total of 638 hp at 6500 rpm and 604 lb.- ft. of torque at 3800 rpm. The Z06 version will hit 198 mph, while the ZR1 will go up to 205 mph.

Rounding out the changes for the 2012 Corvette was a newly available racing-style full-width rear spoiler for the Z06 and ZR1 as part of the Z07 and PDE packages, respectively. The Z06 also was available with a new carbon-fiber hood.

Even with the refinements that had been introduced for the model year, critics of the car continued to identify the 2012 Corvette’s interior as being a “low-rent” option (when compared to similarly priced sports car in its class), but this shortcoming was more than compensated for by the car’s overall drivability, an incredible grip in tight corners, and its strong braking system.  Additionally, the car was noted as having a comfortable ride, though some critics of the car wish the steering provided more feedback.

Photos of the 2o12 Corvette:

Sources:

https://www.corvsport.com/2012-c6-corvette/
https://www.autoblog.com/buy/2012-Chevrolet-Corvette/
https://www.topspeed.com/cars/chevrolet/2012-chevrolet-corvette-ar108515.html
https://www.caranddriver.com/news/a15125683/2012-chevrolet-corvette-z06-and-zr1-news/
https://www.corvsport.com/2012-c6-corvette-image-gallery/

The Chevrolet Corvette, America’s sports car, celebrated its 58^th year in 2011 by again enticing consumers with a broad lineup of returning models, and introducing a new special edition Z06 for the discerning Corvette collector  – the base Corvette coupe and convertible, the Corvette Grand Sport coupe and convertible, the Corvette Z06 coupe, including the introduction of the all-new Carbon Edition Z06 coupe, and the crowned jewel of the entire paddock, the return of the ultra-powerful Corvette ZR1.  While Corvette had offered a limited number of model choices just a few years before, Corvette now offered a model to meet every consumer’s needs – from the casual cruiser to the weekend track warrior, and beyond.

Type: 2 Door Coupe/Convertible, Grand Sport Coupe/Convertible, Z06 Coupe, Z06 Carbon Ed. Coupe, ZR1 Coupe

Pricing: $49,900 (Coupe), $54,550.00 (Convertible), $55,740.00 (Grand Sport Coupe), $59,950 (Grand Sport Convertible), $75,255 (Z06 Corvette), $90,960.00 (Z06 Carbon Fiber Edition), $110,750.00 (ZR1 Corvette)

Engine options: 376 C.I. (6.2L) LS3 Engine (Coupe & Convertible, Grand Sport Coupe & Convertible), 427 C.I. (7.0L) LS7 Engine (Z06 & Z06 Carbon Edition), 376 C.I. (6.2L) LS9 Engine (ZR1 Coupe)

Transmission: 6 Speed Manual Transmission, 6 Speed Paddle Shift Automatic Transmission

Top speed: 196mph (Z06)

Units Produced: 13,596

Available Colors: Arctic White, Blade Silver, Inferno Orange, Black, Velocity Yellow, Cyber Gray, Torch Red, Jetstream Blue, Crystal Red, Supersonic Blue

Highlights of the year: 

The Grand Sport Coupe ($54,790) and Convertible ($58,600) were equipped the same as the base models but with wider-body styling to cover their wider track, racing-tuned suspension, and Z06-sized tires and brakes.

To commemorate both the milestone anniversary of the company as well as the incredible evolution of the small-block V-8 engine, Chevrolet offered a new option to Corvette owners for the 2011 model year.  Designated by Regular Production Option (RPO) PBC, future Corvette owners could now purchase the Engine Plant Build Experience when purchasing either a Z06 or a ZR1 Corvette.

Refinements to the Corvette base model coupe and convertible were very limited for 2011.  Both the coupe, convertible and Grand Sport models came equipped with the 430 horsepower LS3 engine, and came standard with a 6-speed manual transmission, AM/FM/XM stereo with CD, a three-month trial subscription to XM radio, an MP3 jack, OnStar, leather seats, a power driver’s seat, active handling, traction control, tire pressure monitors, and driver, passenger and side airbags.

For 2011, the Corvette Grand Sport received the same refinements as the coupe and convertible with one notable addition –  the Corvette Grand Sport could be equipped with Magnetic Ride Control as an option.  When equipped with both Magnetic Ride Control and a manual transmission, the car also came equipped with four Goodyear F1 Supercar Gen 2 tires.   The optional Magnetic Selective Ride Control suspension featured magneto-rheological dampers that can detect road surfaces, and adjust the damping rates to those surfaces almost instantly for optimal ride control.  It included larger, cross-drilled brake rotors

Corvette Z06 ($74,305) came with a 7.0-liter V8 producing 505 horsepower, with dry-sump lubrication and coolers for the power steering pump, gearbox, and rear differential. Beyond the engine, the Z06 package included a host of high-performance components. The Z06 hardtop was fixed in place. Its brakes were upgraded, its tires are huge (Goodyear Eagle F1 Supercar P275/35ZR18 fronts and P325/30ZR19 rears), and it was offered only with the 6-speed manual transmission.

Options included the Z07 Ultimate Performance package ($9,495) with ceramic brakes with dark gray calipers, Competition Gray aluminum spider wheels, Michelin PS2 tires (P285/30ZR19 front, P335/25ZR20 rear), Magnetic Selective Ride Control and enhanced cooling. The CFZ Carbon Fiber package ($3,995) features a black-painted carbon-fiber roof, rocker panels, and splitter, plus a body-color ZR1-style spoiler. The 2LZ package ($2,665) included a power telescoping steering column, heated seats, memory for the seats, mirrors and steering wheel, Bose audio, universal garage door opener, cargo net, and cargo cover. The 3LZ package ($7,170) had the 2LZ equipment plus power sport seats and a premium leather package similar to the 4LT. There was also a variety of wheel choices, including painted aluminum and chrome finishes.

Corvette ZR1 ($109,800) had a supercharged 6.2-liter version of the Z06 V8, utilizing an Eaton four-lobe supercharger. To deal with the additional stresses and loads, every appropriate piece of the engine was upgraded. The ZR1 was available only as a coupe, and only with a heavy-duty 6-speed manual transmission. The ZR1 came with huge Brembo brakes, 15.5 inches in front and 15.0 inches in the rear, and made of special heat-resistant carbon-ceramic material. The tires were Michelin Pilot Sport 2 ZP run-flats, sized 285/30ZR19 in front and 335/25ZR20 in the rear; the rims are 10 inches wide in front and 12 inches in the rear. The ZR1 also had the lighter-weight aluminum chassis components of the Z06, and carbon fiber for the roof, hood and front fenders. In addition, the ZR1 hood came with a transparent panel.

Refinements to the Corvette base model coupe and convertible were very limited for 2011.  Both the coupe, convertible and Grand Sport models came equipped with the 430 horsepower LS3 engine, and came standard with a 6-speed manual transmission, AM/FM/XM stereo with CD, a three-month trial subscription to XM radio, an MP3 jack, OnStar, leather seats, a power driver’s seat, active handling, traction control, tire pressure monitors, and driver, passenger and side airbags.

For 2011, the Corvette Grand Sport received the same refinements as the coupe and convertible with one notable addition –  the Corvette Grand Sport could be equipped with Magnetic Ride Control as an option.  When equipped with both Magnetic Ride Control and a manual transmission, the car also came equipped with four Goodyear F1 Supercar Gen 2 tires.   The optional Magnetic Selective Ride Control suspension featured magneto-rheological dampers that can detect road surfaces, and adjust the damping rates to those surfaces almost instantly for optimal ride control.  It included larger, cross-drilled brake rotors.

While sales of the C6 Corvette had seen a steady decline in the total number of units since 2008, the 2011 model year saw sales numbers begin to rise once more, though only slightly.  A total of 13,848 Corvettes were sold in 2011, and of those, the Z06 accounted for 1,156 units (coupe and convertible) while the ZR1 totaled 806 units.  While these numbers were still significantly lower than the first couple of years of the C6, where sales averaged between 38-40 thousand units, Corvette continued to forge ahead with the manufacturing of their iconic sports car, though with a growing certainty that the decline in C6 sales tied directly to the still-recovering economy and, more concernedly, the age of the C6 itself.

Unbeknownst to most, a seventh-generation Corvette was already in the works. While working in conjunction with data created by, and collected from, the C6.R Corvette Race Car each race day, the engineers behind the next generation Corvette were looking to the race track in an effort to better design (and eventually manufacture) the most capable, track-ready Corvette ever created.

Photos of the 2011 Corvette:

Sources:

https://www.autoblog.com/buy/2011-Chevrolet-Corvette/expert-review/
https://www.corvsport.com/2011-c6-corvette/
https://www.corvsport.com/2011-c6-corvette-image-gallery/

Type: Two Door Coupe, Two Door Convertible, Competition Sport Special Edition, GT1 Championship Edition Coupe, GT1 Championship Edition Convertible, Z06 Coupe, Competition Sport Edition Z06, GT1 Championship Edition Z06, ZR1 Coupe

Pricing: $49,880.00 (Coupe), $54,530.00 (Convertible), $55,720.00 (Grand Sport Coupe), $59,530.00 (Grand Sport Convertible), $75,235.00, (Z06 Coupe), $107,830.00 (ZR1 Coupe)

Engine options: 376 C.I. (6.2L) LS3 Engine (Coupe and Convertible), 427 C.I. (7.0L) LS7 Engine (Z06), 376 C.I. (6.2L) LS9 Engine (ZR1)

Transmission: 6 Speed Manual Transmission, 6 Speed Paddle Shift Automatic Transmission

Units Produced: 12,194

Available Colors: Arctic White, Blade Silver, Black, Velocity Yellow, Cyber Gray, Torch Red, Jetstream Blue, Crystal Red

Highlights of the year:

While the restructure of General Motors had taken its toll on the company, resulting in the discontinuation of Saturn, Pontiac, and Hummer, it had also allowed the company to refocus their efforts on the remaining brands, giving them the bandwidth to develop new strategies to help them excel once more as an innovator in the automotive marketplace. For Corvette, this innovation meant that Chevrolet would not only continue production of their beloved sports car in all of its current forms – namely, the coupe, convertible, Z06, and ZR1 models – but they’d also be introducing another variant to this already impressive lineup.

This new model would be dubbed “Grand Sport”, a name that has long been synonymous with Corvette performance.  The original Grand Sport Corvette, as envisioned by Zora Arkus-Duntov, was to be a factory-built, lightweight, and race-ready production model that could outperform both domestic and foreign road-racing competitors.

The new Grand Sport combined the Corvette’s LS3-based powertrain with wide-body styling, a wider track, and a racing-bred suspension for a distinctive model that delivered a great balance of road and race track performance. It offered either a six-speed manual or six-speed automatic transmission. The LS3 6.2L engine rated at 430 horsepower (321 kW)* and 424 lb.-ft. of torque (575 Nm)* with the standard exhaust system. An optional two-mode exhaust system elevated the power ratings to 436 horses (325 kW) and 428 lb.-ft. (580 Nm).

The Grand Sport replaced the Corvette’s previous Z51 package and brought a greater degree of handling performance, with wider wheels and tires; revised shock, stabilizer bar and spring specifications; and specific gearing. A combination of 0-60 performance of four seconds, skidpad adhesion of 1 g, and EPA-estimated 26 mpg on the highway made it a very well-rounded sports car.

The Grand Sport borrowed from its big brother, the Z06, to offer Vette drivers something a bit less hardcore but with similar visual appeal. The front fascia with the center-mounted scoop and wider rear fenders were common to the Z06. The front fenders, however, got a new side scoop design unique to the GS with a chrome badge along the top edge. Unlike the Z06, the GS retained the standard steel frame of the base model, meaning it was available in both removable roof coupe and retractable roof convertible body styles.

All of Corvette’s exterior colors were offered on the Grand Sport, and an available Heritage package added iconic front fender hash marks offered in four colors, as well as two-tone seats with Grand Sport embroidery. The Grand Sport can be ordered with 1LT, 2LT, 3LT, and 4LT trim packages, too.

Although never officially sanctioned by General Motors, the five Grand Sport prototypes did spend a considerable amount of time competing on race tracks across the United States, and around the world.  These five cars would continue to race throughout the 1960s, driven by “private” racers who had strong contacts within Duntov’s engineering circle.  All five of these original Grand Sport Corvettes are accounted for today and are considered among the most valuable Corvettes in the collector market.

While the Grand Sport Corvette was certainly the major highlight of the 2010 model year, all of the Corvette models that year received at least some minor refinements, though outwardly, those changes were limited to the re-introduction of exterior color choices, including Torch Red.  The convertible models, regardless of trim level, now included the tall, rear spoiler previously introduced on the Z06 model.

Of course, no model year of Corvette would be complete with the introduction of at least one special edition Corvette, and 2010 was certainly no exception.  To commemorate Corvette’s involvement in the 24 Hours of LeMans since it made its first appearance there in 1960, Chevrolet offered a custom “one-off” Z06 Corvette finished in white with blue stripes, the traditional American racing color scheme.  The car’s look matches that of the original 1960 Corvette, which won its class in Le Mans in 1960.

Photos of the 2010 Corvette:

Sources:

https://www.autoblog.com/buy/2010-Chevrolet-Corvette/editors-review/
https://www.corvettemuseum.org/learn/about-corvette/corvette-specs/2010-corvette-specs/
https://www.corvsport.com/2010-c6-corvette/
https://www.corvsport.com/2010-corvette-zr1-image-gallery/

Despite the financial hardships faced by General Motors at that time, the company announced that the 2009 model year would not only bring changes to the current Corvette model line-up, but that it would also introduce the world to one of the most powerful – and, ironically, most expensive – production-model Corvettes of all time – the 638 horsepower ZR1 Corvette Coupe (see 2009 ZR1 Corvette Overview).

Type: Two Door Coupe, Two Door Convertible, Competition Sport Special Edition, GT1 Championship Edition Coupe, GT1 Championship Edition Convertible, Z06 Coupe, Competition Sport Edition Z06, GT1 Championship Edition Z06, ZR1 Coupe

Pricing: $47,895.00 (Coupe), $53,550.00 (Convertible), $55,765.00 (Competition Sport), $65,410.00 (GT1 C.E. Coupe), $71,915,00 (GT1 C.E. Conv.), $73,255.00 (Z06 Coupe), $77,600.00 (Comp. Sport Z06), $86,486.00 (GT1 C.E. Z06), $103,300.00 (ZR1 Coupe)

Engine options: 376 C.I. (6.2L) LS3 Engine (Coupe and Convertible), 427 C.I. (7.0L) LS7 Engine (Z06), 376 C.I. (6.2L) LS9 Engine (ZR1)

Transmission: 6 Speed Manual Transmission, 6 Speed Paddle Shift Automatic Transmission

Top speed: 205mph

Units Produced: 16,956

Available Colors: Arctic White, Blade Silver, LeMans Blue, Black, Velocity Yellow, Cyber Gray, Victory Red, Atomic Orange, Jetstream Blue, Crystal Red

Highlights of the year:

Chevrolet officially announced the 2009 Corvette ZR1 – an American supercar that brings the technology and engineering refinement of carbon-fiber, ceramics and electronics together in a distinctive design.

“Chevrolet’s goal with the new ZR1 is to show what an American supercar can deliver, at a price that trumps exotics that cost two, three or four times as much – and does so with exceptional driveability,” said Ed Peper, Chevrolet general manager.

The new LS9 6.2L small-block engine is the power plant the supports the ZR1’s performance capability. The enabler of the LS9’s performance and refinement is a large, positive-displacement Roots-type supercharger with a new, four-lobe rotor design. It is augmented with an integrated charge cooling system that reduces inlet air temperature for maximum performance.

A sixth-generation supercharger developed by Eaton helped the LS9 make big power and torque at lower rpm and carried it in a wide arc to 6,600 rpm, as it pushes enough air to help the engine maintain power through the upper levels of the rpm band – the area where supercharged performance tended to diminish. Heavy-duty and lightweight reciprocating components enabled the engine’s confident high-rpm performance.

The LS9 engine was backed by a new, stronger six-speed manual transmission and a twin-disc clutch that provide exceptional clamping power, while maintaining an easy clutch effort. ZR1-specific gearing in the transmission provides a steep first-gear ratio that helps launch the car, and top speed was achieved in sixth gear – a change from the fifth-gear top-speed run-outs in the manual-transmission Corvette and Corvette Z06.

The ZR1 was built on the same aluminum-intensive chassis as the Corvette Z06 and featured similar independent SLA front and rear suspensions, with aluminum upper and lower control arms. Where the ZR1 differed was the suspension tuning, which was optimized for the car’s steamroller-wide front and rear tires.

While the 2008 model year saw a number of notable improvements to the C6 coupe and convertible, including the introduction of the LS3 6.2L V-8 as the new standard engine for the base model Corvettes, the focus of the 2009 model year would be centered on refining those improvements while simultaneously ushering in a new era of Corvette performance unparalleled in the production car’s impressive history.

The 2009 Corvette was also the first to be equipped with Bluetooth capability, which provided owners with the convenience and safety of utilizing Bluetooth hands-free phone service

There were also improvements to the exterior. This Corvette blended elements from earlier Corvettes, (such as a rear split-window reminiscent of the 1963 Stingray,) with futuristic visual cues unlike anything seen on any Corvette before it. Although a vision of what future Corvettes could very well look like, this design was actually developed in conjunction with Michael Bay and Paramount Pictures for the movie “Transformers: Revenge of the Fallen” which hit movie theaters later that same year.

To commemorate the successes of the C6.R Corvette Race Car, GM also introduced a limited production GT1 Championship Edition Corvette.

The exteriors of this special edition Corvette came in one of two unique color schemes: titanium-colored graphics set against a vibrant yellow paint, or black paint with yellow-and-titanium accent to match the C6.R’s 2009 livery.

Despite the introduction of the ZR1, the special edition/commemorative editions, and the continual improvement in quality represented in every coupe and convertible built, Corvette’s sales numbers saw a dramatic drop from 2008 to 2009.

Where 2008 saw over 35,000 Corvettes sold during its production run, the 2009 model year saw less than half that, with a total of just 16,956 cars being sold that year.  Understandably, the U.S. economy was in the middle of a fairly dramatic recession, and purchasing a Corvette was a luxury that fewer consumers could – or would be willing to – afford given the financial hardships experienced the world over.

Photos of the 2009 Corvette:

Sources:

https://www.corvettemuseum.org/learn/about-corvette/corvette-specs/2009-corvette-zr1-specs/
https://www.corvsport.com/2009-c6-corvette/
https://www.corvsport.com/2008-c6-corvette-image-gallery/