The Captivating History of The Chevrolet Corvette

The Captivating History of The Chevrolet Corvette

4th-7th Gen Corvettes

C4

red corvette on road
TrimProductionEnginePowerTransmissionDrivetrain
C419845.7L L83 V8205 HP / 207 PS / 153 kW6-Speed Manual
4-Speed Automatic
RWD
C41985 – 19915.7L L98 V8230 – 403 HP / 233 – 408 PS / 172 – 301 kW6-Speed Manual
4-Speed Automatic
RWD
C41990 – 19955.7L LT5 V8375 – 405 HP / 380 – 410 PS / 280 – 302 kW6-Speed Manual
4-Speed Automatic
RWD
C41992 – 19965.7L LT1 V8300 HP / 304 PS / 224 kW6-Speed Manual
4-Speed Automatic
RWD
C41995 – 19965.7L LT4 V8330 HP / 334 PS / 246 kW6-Speed ManualRWD
Approx. performance specs for C4 models

The fourth generation of the Corvette, known as the C4, arrived in 1984 after a brief hiatus. The C4 represented a significant departure from its predecessor in terms of both design and technology. It featured a sleeker and more modern appearance, with a focus on aerodynamics. The C4 also introduced advanced features such as digital instrumentation, electronic fuel injection, and anti-lock brakes. Under the hood, the C4 offered a range of engine options, including the powerful LT5 engine in the ZR-1 variant, developed in collaboration with Lotus. The C4 Corvette enjoyed a long production run, with continuous improvements made over the years. Notably, the 1992 model saw the introduction of the LT1 engine, which further enhanced the car’s performance. The C4 Corvette served as a bridge between the classic models and the modern era, paving the way for future innovations.

C4 black interior
The cockpit of a C4 Corvette, top dollar back in 84′
Source: Bring-A-Trailer

C5

Previous models of the Chevy Corvette
Official Pace cars used in Indianapolis 500 Race Event
Left to Right (Black C3, Yellow C4, Violet C4 & 98′ C5 Pace Car)
Source: Chevrolet
TrimProductionEnginePowerTransmissionDrivetrain
C51997 – 20005.7L LS1 V8345 HP / 350 PS / 257 kW6-Speed Manual
4-Speed Automatic
RWD
C5 Z062001 – 20045.7L LS6 V8350 HP / 354 PS / 261 kW6-Speed Manual
4-Speed Automatic
RWD
Approx. performance specs for C5 models

The fifth generation of the Corvette, known as the C5, marked a significant turning point for the iconic sports car. Introduced in 1997, the C5 featured a completely redesigned structure with a lightweight yet rigid chassis. This new platform, combined with advanced suspension and aerodynamics, resulted in improved performance and handling. The C5 also introduced the LS1 V8 engine, a modern powerplant that delivered exceptional power and efficiency. The interior of the C5 received a much-needed update, offering increased comfort and modern amenities. Furthermore, the C5 Corvette became the first Corvette to be equipped with a hydroformed frame, contributing to its structural rigidity and handling prowess. The C5 was praised for its refined driving dynamics, making it a true world-class sports car.

Red C5 Convertible parked near grass

Bring on the Corvette C6 ZR1

blue c6 on brick road
Blue flashy C6 restored by Chevrolet in reaction to this ZR1 taking damage from a sinkhole at the National Corvette Museum back in 2008
TrimProductionEnginePowerTransmissionDrivetrain
C62005 – 20076.0L LS2 V8345 HP / 350 PS / 257 kW6-Speed Manual
6/4-Speed Automatic
RWD
C62008 – 20136.2L LS3 V8350 HP / 354 PS / 261 kW6-Speed Manual
6/4-Speed Automatic
RWD
C6 Z062006 – 20137.0L LS7 V8505 HP / 512 PS / 377 kW6-Speed Manual
6/4-Speed Automatic
RWD
C6 ZR12009 – 20136.2L LS9 V8638 HP / 647 PS / 476 kW6-Speed Manual
6/4-Speed Automatic
RWD
Approx. performance specs for C6 models

The sixth generation of the Corvette, known as the C6, debuted in 2005, showcasing further advancements in performance and design. The C6 retained the classic Corvette silhouette but featured sharper lines and a more aggressive stance. It offered various engine options, including the LS2 and later the LS3, delivering increased power and torque. The C6 also introduced significant improvements in interior quality and overall refinement. In 2008, the Corvette received a major update with the introduction of the ZR1 variant, featuring a supercharged LS9 engine that produced an astonishing 638 horsepower, making it the most powerful Corvette up to that point. The C6 Corvette further solidified its reputation as a high-performance sports car, blending power, handling, and comfort in a package that appealed to enthusiasts and everyday drivers alike.

Blue ZR1 with trunk and hood open
Restored 2009 C6 Chevrolet Corvette
Source: Chevrolet
black c6 parked on the ground
The C6 still is a crowd favorite even showing up with custom flare back at car event in 2018
Source: Motofutura

Corvette C7 & The Stingray Concept

C7 driver cockpit for the corvette
2017 Grand Sport Driver Cockpit

The seventh generation of the Corvette, known as the C7, made its debut in 2014, bringing forth a bold and futuristic design. The C7 Corvette featured sharp creases, aggressive angles, and a prominent front grille, giving it a more menacing appearance. It introduced many technological advancements, including an advanced infotainment system and a driver-focused cockpit. The C7 also marked the return of the Stingray name, paying homage to the iconic C2 generation. Under the hood, the C7 offered two engine options: the LT1 V8 and the supercharged LT4 in the Z06 variant. The C7 Corvette excelled in terms of performance, with blistering acceleration, precise handling, and excellent braking capabilities. It solidified Chevrolet’s commitment to producing a world-class sports car that could compete with its European counterparts.

engine block of an LS
LT1 6.2L V8 VVT Engine block that came factory from Chevrolet in the C7 model
Blue c7 driving on road
Source: Chevrolet
TrimProductionEnginePowerTransmissionDrivetrain
C72014 – 2019 6.2L LT1 V8460 HP / 466 PS / 340 kW7-Speed Manual
8-Speed Automatic
RWD
C7 Z062015 – 20196.2L LT4 Supercharged V8650 HP / 659 PS / 485 kW7-Speed Manual
8-Speed Automatic
RWD
C7 ZR120196.2L LT5 Supercharged V8755 HP / 765 PS / 563 kW7-Speed Manual
8-Speed Automatic
RWD
Approx. performance specs for C7 models

2 Responses

  1. I have a 1980 Stingray corvette that I would like to convert to a manual transmission what would I need to do if anything to the frame to accept the clutch and stick shifter ?

  2. I’ve a 67 small block Stingray convertible with manual transmission. Original paint. Silver and black. Love her beyond measure. The Way she drives along the coast in Big Sur is a dream. Happy to send photo of her being photographed for German Fashion Editorial Magazine.

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