Chevrolet Corvette History  1953 to 2000

Production Models & Prototypes

In 1951 a group of Harley Earl's "Special Projects" crew began work on a GM sports car. Bob McLean designed a general layout for the car which was originally code named, "Opel." Myron Scott, at the time Chevrolet's Chief photographer, is credited with coming up with the Corvette name, drawing from the small, fast warships of the "Corvette" class. The Jaguar XK120 is believed to have been the inspiration for the first Corvette.

Corvette was not the first to be made with a fiberglass body, but it was the first to be built by a company the size of Chevrolet. The Corvette was the first and last car with a true "wrap-around" windshield.

To date there have been five generations of Corvettes:

C1: 1953 to 1962                  C2: 1963 to 1967                  C3: 1968 to 1983

C4: 1984 to 1996                  C5: 1997 to Present

1953 Corvette

Wheelbase: 102"	Track: 57" Front / 58.8" Rear	Height: 51.5" Over Windshield
Length: 167.3"	Width: 69.8"	Curb Weight: 2,886 lbs.
Tire Size: 6.70x15"	Plant: Flint, MI

The first time the public saw Harley J. Earl's "Dream car", the Corvette, was in January 1953 at the Motorama display at the Waldorf Astoria hotel in New York City. On June 30, 1953 the Corvette went into full production (each car was built by hand) at the GM facility in Flint, Michigan, where 300 Corvettes were built that year. All 1953 Corvettes were white with a red interior, all had Powerglide automatic transmissions mated to 150 HP, six cylinder engines with three carburetors and dual exhaust. This is the rarest Corvette. Of the 300 built, 255 are accounted for today. Due to a shortage of wheel covers, the first 25 cars were delivered with the standard Chevrolet "baby moon" passenger car wheel cover. All of the 1953 production were convertibles with black canvas tops, heaters, an  AM radio..

1954 Corvette

Wheelbase: 102"	Track: 57" Front / 58.8" Rear	Height: 51.5" Over Windshield
Length: 167.3"	Width: 69.8"	Curb Weight: 2,886 lbs.
Tire Size: 6.70x15"	Plant: St. Louis

For 1954, Corvette production moved to a newly renovated facility in St. Louis Missouri where 10,000 Corvettes were expected to be built every year. Actual production began in December of 1953. Production for 1954 was 3,640 units. Nearly one third remained unsold in December of 1954. Mid year production saw a camshaft change that increased horsepower to 155 in the 235ci six cylinder engine, all Corvettes produced retained the Powerglide automatic transmission. Three new colours, Pennant Blue, Sportsman Red, and Black were added along with the standard Polo White. A beige interior was also offered.

All 1954 Corvettes Were Built With The Following Options: Directional signals, heater, AM radio, Whitewall tires, Powerglide transmission, parking brake alarm, courtesy lights, windshield washer.

1955 Corvette

Wheelbase: 102"	Track: 57" Front / 58.8" Rear	Height: 51.5" Over Windshield
Length: 167.3"	Width: 69.8"	Curb Weight: 2,805lbs. ( V-8 )
Tire Size: 6.70x15"	Plant: St. Louis

The Ford Motor Company showed the Thunderbird two-seat convertible in Detroit in 1954. The Thunderbird is a major part of GM's decision to continue production of the Corvette after the disappointing 1954 sales year. Although sales climbed to 3640 units in 1954, 10,000 units were expected, and sales fell off dramatically in 1955 to just 700 in 1955 setting off rumours that Corvette might be a short-lived automotive experiment.

But Zora Arkus-Duntov had different ideas. Zora Arkus-Duntov, an engineer on the Corvette team since 1953 and a former European road racer, set out to give Corvette the two things it needed most, better performance and better handling. In July of 1952 Chevrolet chief engineer Ed Cole, and Harry Barr went to work on an all-new Chevrolet V-8, and Corvette's evolution into a true sports car began in 1955 when a 265-cu.-in. V8 that generated 195 horsepower was offered. By the end of the 1955 model year, a 3-speed manual transmission was also available.

Base Engine: 235ci "Blue Flame" 155hp
Option: 265ci V8 195hp . Identified by a Gold "V" on both front fenders, and a 12Volt electrical system.

• In 1955, driving a prototype V8-powered Corvette, Zora Arkus-Duntov set a new record in the Daytona "Measured Mile" at just over 150 miles per hour.

1956 Corvette

Wheelbase: 102"	Track: 57" Front / 58.8" Rear	Height: 51" Over Hardtop
Length: 168"	Width: 70.5"	Curb Weight: 2,875 lbs.
Tire Size: 6.70x15"	Plant: St. Louis

The Corvette received its first major body redesign in 1956. Only the instrument panel remained the same. The new design featured roll-up windows and power assist optional. External door handles and locks exposed headlights and the famous side cove. This was also the first year for two-tone paint, seat belts, factory hard tops, and the 1956 Corvette was the first car to offer a "Transistorized" AM Radio, and "Dual Point" Distributors. Dual four-barrel carburetors were available as an option on the V-8.

1956 Options: Heater, AM radio, parking brake alarm, courtesy lights, windshield washers, whitewall tires, Powerglide transmission, auxiliary hardtop, power windows, two tone paint, hi-lift camshaft, 3.27 rear axle ratio, power operated folding top.

Base Engine:       265ci V8 210hp

Optional Engine: 265ci V8 225hp Engine 2 4Bbl Carbs

1957 Corvette

wheelbase: 102"	Track: 57" Front / 58.8" Rear	Height: 51" Over Hardtop
Length: 168"	Width: 70.5"	Curb Weight: 2,849 lbs.
Tire Size: 6.70x15"	Plant: St. Louis

The 1957 Corvette was the first car ever to combine fuel injection with a four speed manual transmission. Engine displacement increased to 283ci and the most powerful option engine developed 283hp one horsepower for every cubic inch! After winning a few major races in 1957, sales for the year jumped to a total of 6,339 units, up from 3,467 for 1956.

Base Engine: 283ci V8 220hp

Engine Options:  283ci 245hp -2 4bbl. Carbs,  283ci 270hp -2 4Bbl Carbs, 

                            283ci 250hp – Fuel Injection, 283ci 283hp – Fuel Injection

In 1957, Zora Arkus-Duntov officially became chief of Corvette Production

Zora's XP64 (Corvette SS) was officially released in 1957

1958 Corvette

Wheelbase: 102"	Track: 57" Front / 58.8" Rear	Height: 51" Over Hardtop
Length: 177.2"	Width: 72.8"	Curb Weight: 2,926 lbs.
Tire Size: 6.70x15"	Plant: St. Louis

Two 1958 Corvettes entered in the Sebring Grand Prix of Endurance, The last race with official factory participation from Corvette. Sales of the 1958 Corvette reached 9,168. Enough units were finally sold to turn a profit for Corvette for the first time. Extensive redesign for 1958 included new body panels, a new instrument panel, and new upholstery. 1958 Corvettes featured another first for any car, dual headlights on each fender and a 160MPH speedometer.

Base Engine: 283ci V8 230hp

Engine Options:  283ci 245hp -2 4bbl. Carbs,  283ci 270hp -2 4Bbl Carbs, 

                            283ci 250hp – Fuel Injection, 283ci 290hp – Fuel Injection

In 1958, Zora Arkus-Duntov in a Corvette SS hit 183 MPH on the GM proving grounds in Phoenix Arizona.

1959 Corvette

Wheelbase: 102"	Track: 57" Front / 58.8" Rear	Height: 51" Over Hardtop
Length: 177.2"	Width: 72.8"	Curb Weight: 2,975 lbs.
Tire Size: 6.70x15"	Plant: St. Louis

The 1959 Corvette was basically the same as the 1958 in outside appearance, except for the absence of the simulated hood louvers, and the twin chrome trunk spears. The dash instruments were redesigned, and a new tachometer face was used. The "T" shift handle with a reverse lockout was introduced in 1959, for another Corvette first.

Base Engine: 283ci V8 230hp

Engine Options:  283ci 245hp -2 4bbl. Carbs,  283ci 270hp -2 4Bbl Carbs, 

                            283ci 250hp – Fuel Injection, 283ci 290hp – Fuel Injection

Zora's XP700 was revised, lengthened, and exaggerated. A double bubble transparent plastic hardtop was added. Zora began work the CERV 1

1960 Corvette

Wheelbase: 102"	Track: 57" Front / 58.8" Rear	Height: 51" Over Hardtop
Length: 177.2"	Width: 72.8"	Curb Weight: 2,985 lbs.
Tire Size: 6.70x15"	Plant: St. Louis

The television show "Route 66" premiered with a story of two young men driving a 1960 Corvette around the US in search of adventure. And while deep see fishing in the Bahamas, Bill Mitchell lands a shark and thinks of the idea for the body shape of the XP-775, the Corvette Shark. The 1960 Corvette was the last to feature tail lights formed into the rounded fenders, and the last with the heavy "tooth" grill. The base exterior of the 1960 Corvette continued the smooth look of the previous years.

Base Engine: 283ci V8 230hp

Engine Options:  283ci 245hp -2 4bbl. Carbs,  283ci 270hp -2 4Bbl Carbs, 

                            283ci 250hp – Fuel Injection, 283ci 290hp – Fuel Injection

1961 Corvette

Wheelbase: 102"	Track: 57" Front / 58.8" Rear	Height: 51.5" Over Hardtop
Length: 177.2"	Width: 70.4"	Curb Weight: 3,035lbs.
Tire Size: 6.70x15"	Plant: St. Louis

The exterior styling was face-lifted for 1961. It was the first Corvette without heavy "teeth" in the grill area. The rear was completely restyled with four taillights, now a Corvette Trademark. The transmission tunnel was reduced in width to give the interior a 20% increase in interior space.

Base Engine: 283ci V8 230hp

Engine Options:  283ci 245hp -2 4bbl. Carbs,  283ci 270hp -2 4Bbl Carbs, 

                            283ci 275hp – Fuel Injection, 283ci 315hp – Fuel Injection

1961 Corvette "Shark" show car made it's first appearance.

1962 Corvette

Wheelbase: 102"	Track: 57" Front / 58.8" Rear	Height: 51.5" Over Hardtop
Length: 177.2"	Width: 70.4"	Curb Weight: 3,065lbs.
Tire Size: 6.70x15"	Plant: St. Louis

Chevrolet showed the experimental Mako Shark for the first time. Sales had increased to the point where a second shift at the plant was added shortly after 1962 production began. Engine displacement increased from 283ci for 1961 to 327ci for 1962. Dual carburetor engines were no longer available. 1962 Corvettes could not be ordered with a painted side cove.

Base Engine: 327ci V8 250hp

Engine Options: 327ci 300hp,  327ci 360hp - Fuel Injection

Work began in 1962 on a Corvette that would become known as the "Grand Sport"

1963 Corvette

Wheelbase: 98"	Track: 56.25" Front / 57" Rear	Height: 49.8" Coupe
Length: 175.1"	Width: 69.6"	Curb Weight: 3,015lbs.
Tire Size: 6.70x15"	Plant: St. Louis

Corvette completely redesigned both the body and chassis. For the first time, a coupe body was available. A center split on the coupe roof flowed through the rear glass creating the famous "Split Window". This was also the first Corvette to do away with the solid rear axle.

Base Engine: 327ci V8 250hp

Engine Options: 327ci 300hp,  327ci 340hp,  327ci 360hp - Fuel Injection

Operation Mongoose, which produced the Corvette Grand Sport, designed as the Cobra Killer, is cancelled when GM top executives find out about the project. However, three Corvette Grand Sports with 550 hp engines decidedly beat the Ford Cobras at Nassau.

1964 Corvette

Wheelbase: 98"	Track: 56.25" Front / 57" Rear	Height: 49.8" Coupe
Length: 175.1"	Width: 69.6"	Curb Weight: 3,125 lbs.
Tire Size: 6.70x15"	Plant: St. Louis

The split window on the coupe was removed for 1964 as well as the hood trim panels, but the hood recesses remained. A three-speed fan was placed in the rear of Coupe models to improve ventilation; the fan pulled air through vents added to the drivers side roof panel. 1964 Seat backs are more square, and thicker at the top. From 1964 through 1967, Dow-Smith in Ionia, Michigan, a division of the A.O. Smith Company, supplied some Corvette bodies.

Base Engine: 327ci V8 250hp

Engine Options: 327ci 300hp,  327ci 365hp,  327ci 375hp - Fuel Injection

The last episode of TV's "Route 66" aired in 1964, and the show was cancelled. Roger Penske raced a Grand Sport in Nassau against a vast and powerful Cobra opposition. His win established the last GM victory over the Ford powered Cobras for years to come.

1965 Corvette

Wheelbase: 98"	Track: 56.8" Front / 57.6" Rear	Height: 49.8" Coupe
Length: 175.1"	Width: 69.6"	Curb Weight: 3,135 lbs.
Tire Size: 7.75x15"	Plant: St. Louis

This was the last year for fuel injection in Corvettes until the throttle body injection in 1982. The Mid year introduction of the "big block" a 396ci, 425hp engine with a special hood. The Mako Shark II, a pilot car for what would be the 1968 model, made its first appearance at the New York International Auto Show.

Base Engine: 327ci V8 250hp

Engine Options: 327ci 300hp, 327ci 365hp, 396ci 425hp, 327ci 350hp,  327ci 375hp - Fuel Injection

1966 Corvette

Wheelbase: 98"	Track: 56.8" Front / 57.6" Rear	Height: 49.8" Coupe
Length: 175.1"	Width: 69.6"	Curb Weight: 3,140 lbs.
Tire Size: 7.75x15"	Plant: St. Louis

The 1966 Corvette was very similar to the 1965 model. There were subtle differences in trim, including the addition to the Corvette script to the hood, and a new square mesh cast grill. The roof vents were deleted. Headrests were available for the first time. This was the first year for the famous 427 Big Block engine. A 327ci 300hp engine and 3 speed manual transmission were the base driveline options.

Base Engine: 327ci V8 300hp

Engine Options: 327ci 350hp,  427ci 390hp,  427ci 450/425hp

1967 Corvette

Wheelbase: 98"	Track: 56.8" Front / 57.6" Rear	Height: 49.8" Coupe
Length: 175.1"	Width: 69.6"	Curb Weight: 3,155 lbs.
Tire Size: 7.75x15"	Plant: St. Louis

This was the year the Corvette L-88 made it's debut at LeMans. It is also the last of what is known as the Corvette midyears (1963~1967). Due to removal of trim, the 1967 Corvette was the least adorned of these model years.

Base Engine: 327ci V8 300hp

Engine Options: 327ci 350hp, 427ci 390hp, 427ci 400hp, 427ci 430hp, 427ci 435hp

1968 Corvette

Wheelbase: 98"	Track: 58.3" Front / 59" Rear	Height: 47.8" Coupe
Length: 182.5"	Width: 69"	Curb Weight: 3,210 lbs.
Tire Size: F70x15"	Plant: St. Louis

1968 was the year that Zora Arkus-Duntov was named Chief Engineer of Chevrolet. The Corvette Astro II was shown at the New York Auto Show. Both the Exterior and Interior of the Corvette were redesigned for 1968. The coupes featured a removable rear window and roof hatches.

Base Engine: 327ci V8 300hp

Engine Options: 327ci 350hp,  427ci 390hp,  427ci 400hp, 427ci 430hp , 427ci 435hp , 427ci 400hp   

1969 Corvette

Wheelbase: 98"	Track: 58.7" Front / 59.4" Rear	Height: 47.8" Coupe
Length: 182.5"	Width: 69"	Curb Weight: 3,245 lbs.
Tire Size: F70x15"	Plant: St. Louis

The base engine for the 1969 Corvette was changed to 350ci 300hp. Famed designer Harley Earl died at age 75. John DeLorean became the general manager of Chevrolet and cancelled work on the XP-882, a four-wheel drive mid-engine test Corvette.

Base Engine: 350ci V8 300hp

Engine Options: 350ci 350hp,  427ci 400hp,  427ci 430hp,  427ci 435hp

1970 Corvette

Wheelbase: 98"	Track: 58.7" Front / 59.4" Rear	Height: 47.8" Coupe
Length: 182.5"	Width: 69"	Curb Weight: 3,285 lbs.
Tire Size: F70x15"	Plant: St. Louis

The body design for 1970 was updated with fender swells to reduce debris damage and new fender louvers replaced the four vertical slots of the 1968 and 1969 models. Seats were redesigned for increased head room. The 454 CI big block engine made it's debut, along with the net solid lifter 350cu. LT1 370hp engine. Chevrolet unveiled the experimental mid-engine XP-895 Corvette at the New York Auto Show. The car is the restyled XP-882

Base Engine: 350ci V8 300hp

Engine Options: 350ci 350hp,  350ci 370hp,  454ci 390hp

The ZR1 included the LT1(350ci 370hp) Engine, M22 Transmission, heavy-duty power brakes, transistor ignition, special aluminium radiator, and special springs, shocks, and front and rear stabilizer bars. ZR1's also had metal fan shrouds.

1971 Corvette

Wheelbase: 98"	Track: 58.7" Front / 59.4" Rear	Height: 47.8" Coupe
Length: 182.5"	Width: 69"	Curb Weight: 3,202 lbs.
Tire Size: F70x15"	Plant: St. Louis

The 1971 Corvette was one of the model years least changed in appearance. A labour dispute in May of 1969 caused the 1969 model production to run long, shortening normal 1970 production by over four months. To compensate Chevrolet then treated 1971 Corvette production as an extension of 1970. GM also directed it's divisions to cut octane requirement in all 1971 engines, this effort carried a higher priority than appearance changes. One visible clue to a 1971's outward appearance is amber parking light lenses, although some very early production had clear lenses.

Base Engine: 350ci V8 270hp

Engine Options: 350ci 330hp,  454ci 365hp,  454ci 425hp

The ZR1 included the LT1 Engine, M22 Transmission, heavy-duty power brakes, transistor ignition, special aluminum radiator, and special springs, shocks, and front and rear stabilizer bars. ZR1's also had metal fan shrouds. The ZR2 was similar to the ZR1 except the ZR2 package included the LS6 454ci, 425hp engine.

1972 Corvette

Wheelbase: 98"	Track: 58.7" Front / 59.4" Rear	Height: 47.8" Coupe
Length: 182.5"	Width: 69"	Curb Weight: 3,305 lbs.
Tire Size: F70x15"	Plant: St. Louis

The appearance changes were again minimal for 1972. The 1972 Corvette was the last to feature front and rear chrome bumpers, a bright "egg crate" grill, side fender grills and the removable rear window. This was the last year for the RPO-LT1 and RPO-ZR1, although the ZR1 code was again used in 1990 and the LT1 designated a new base engine in 1992.

Base Engine: 350ci V8 200hp

Engine Options: 350ci 255hp,  454ci 270hp

The ZR1 included the LT1 Engine, M21 Transmission, heavy-duty power brakes, transistor ignition, special aluminum radiator, and special springs, shocks, and front and rear stabilizer bars. 1972 ZR1's generally had no fan shrouds..

1973 Corvette

Wheelbase: 98"	Track: 58.7" Front / 59.5" Rear	Height: 47.8" Coupe
Length: 184.6"	Width: 69"	Curb Weight: 3,416 lbs.
Tire Size: GR70x15"	Plant: St. Louis

For 1973 Corvette adapted the rotary engine in the 4-Rotor gull wing door XP882 Prototype. Four thousand serial numbers for the 1973 model year were never built. The last Corvette built in 1973 ends with 34,464 but production only totalled 30,464 the missing numbers are VIN 24,001 through 28,000. Rear bumpers were unchanged from 1972, but front bumpers were changed to meet federal 5MPH standards which added 35 pounds of weight to the vehicle. A new hood, with rear cold air induction was introduced.

Base Engine: 350ci V8 190hp

Engine Options: 350ci 250hp,  454ci 275hp

1974 Corvette

Wheelbase: 98"	Track: 58.7" Front / 59.5" Rear	Height: 47.8" Coupe
Length: 185.5"	Width: 69"	Curb Weight: 3,388 lbs.
Tire Size: GR70x15"	Plant: St. Louis

The 1974 Corvette was the last Corvette produced without catalytic converters. Cast aluminum wheels were listed on the options list, but according to records, none were sold. The transition to soft bumpers was completed in 1974 with the new body colour rear bumpers. This was the last year for the 454 "Big Block" engines.

Base Engine: 350ci V8 195hp

Engine Options: 350ci 250hp,  454ci 270hp

1975 Corvette

Wheelbase: 98"	Track: 58.7" Front / 59.5" Rear	Height: 48.1" Coupe
Length: 185.5"	Width: 69"	Curb Weight: 3,529 lbs.
Tire Size: GR70x15"	Plant: St. Louis

The 1975 Convertible was supposed to be the "last" but production resumed again in 1986. This was the first year for catalytic converters, High Energy Ignition (HEI), This was the first year since 1964 that only one engine displacement size was offered. It was also the first year for the headlight warning buzzer. Zora Arkus-Duntov officially resigned from GM, David McLellan takes his place. Duntov buys his 1974 company Corvette from Chevrolet.

Base Engine: 350ci V8 165hp

Engine Options: 350ci 205hp,

1976 Corvette

Wheelbase: 98"	Track: 58.7" Front / 59.5" Rear	Height: 48" Coupe
Length: 185.2"	Width: 69"	Curb Weight: 3,541 lbs.
Tire Size: GR70x15	Plant: St. Louis

The 1976 featured GM's new Freedom battery. The air induction system for the carburetor was moved from the rear of the hood to a more forward source point so air was pulled in over the radiator reducing noise. Aluminum wheels finally arrived as a bona fide option.

Base Engine: 350ci V8 180hp

Engine Options: 350ci 210hp

1977 Corvette

Wheelbase: 98"	Track: 58.7" Front / 59.5" Rear	Height: 48.1" Coupe
Length: 185.2"	Width: 69"	Curb Weight: 3,534 lbs.
Tire Size: GR70x15	Plant: St. Louis

Leather seats were standard for the first time in 1977, cloth seats inserts were an option. The anti-theft key switch was removed, and the side flags were added. The 500,000 Corvette drove off the assembly line in May. Former GM Chief Ed Cole died in a light plane crash in Michigan. Bill Mitchell resigned from GM in July and Irv Rybicki became the head of the GM design staff. The mid-engine V8 Aerovette was shown for the first time.

Base Engine: 350ci V8 180hp

Engine Options:  350ci  210hp

1978 Corvette

Wheelbase: 98"	Track: 58.7" Front / 59.5" Rear	Height: 48" Coupe
Length: 185.2"	Width: 69"	Curb Weight: 3,572 lbs.
Tire Size: P225/70R15	Plant: St. Louis

This was the 25^th anniversary for the Corvette and Chevrolet introduced the most extensively redesigned Corvette since 1968. 25^th Anniversary emblems appeared on the 1978 Corvette. The Corvette was honoured as the Pace Car for the 1978 Indy 500 and to commemorate the event, Chevrolet built limited edition Corvettes with their own VIN number sequence. The Wall Street Journal ran a front page article about the 1978 Indy Pace Cars, indicating they would be an excellent investment.

Base Engine: 350ci V8 185hp  (350ci 175hp  CE)

Engine Options:  350ci  220hp

1979 Corvette

Wheelbase: 98"	Track: 58.7" Front / 59.5" Rear	Height: 48" Coupe
Length: 185.2"	Width: 69"	Curb Weight: 3,503 lbs.
Tire Size: P225/70R15	Plant: St. Louis

The high back seat featured in the 1978 Corvette Pace Car was made standard equipment in 1979. The 85MPH Speedometers associated with the 1980 Corvette were installed on several late build Corvettes.

Base Engine: 350ci V8 195hp

Engine Options:  350ci  225hp

1980 Corvette

Wheelbase: 98"	Track: 58.7" Front / 59.5" Rear	Height: 48" Coupe
Length: 185.3"	Width: 69"	Curb Weight: 3,336 lbs.
Tire Size: P225/70R15	Plant: St. Louis

For the first time since 1974, two engine displacements were available in Corvettes. After several years of weight increases, the 1980 Corvette was lighter because of lower density roof panels reduced thickness in hood and outer doors, and using aluminum for the differential housing and cross member.

Base Engine: 350ci V8 190hp - In California 305ci V8 180hp

Engine Options:  350ci  230hp

1981 Corvette

Wheelbase: 98"	Track: 58.7" Front / 59.5" Rear	Height: 48" Coupe
Length: 185.3"	Width: 69"	Curb Weight: 3,307 lbs.
Tire Size: P225/70R15	Plant: St. Louis-Bowling Green

The 1981 Corvette was the first Corvette to be built simultaneously in two locations. The first Corvette rolled off the assembly line at the new Bowling Green, KY plant on June 1, 1981 and the last Corvette to be built at the St. Louis, MO plant rolled off the line August 1, 1981. The 1981 Corvette was also the last model to have a manual transmission available until late in the 1984 production year. Until it's last car, the St. Louis plant continued to use lacquer paints, while the new Bowling Green plant used a new paint process which used enamel base coats followed by clear top coats.

Base Engine: 350ci V8 190hp

Engine Options:  None

1982 Corvette

Wheelbase: 98"	Track: 58.7" Front / 59.5" Rear	Height: 48" Coupe
Length: 185.3"	Width: 69"	Curb Weight: 3,342 lbs.
Tire Size: P225/70R15	Plant: Bowling Green

The 1982 Corvette was the last of a generation. The body shape dated to 1968 and the chassis to 1963. In honour of the 1982 status, Chevrolet offered a special Collector Edition which was the first Corvette with the base price exceeding $20,000. Production in Bowling Green began in 1981, and 8,995 cars were built that year. The new plant closed in October of 1982 to begin retooling for the 1984 Corvette. No manual transmission was available this year

Base Engine: 350ci V8 200hp

Engine Options:  None

1983 Corvette

Officially, There were no 1983 Corvettes. There were forty seven 1983 Corvettes made but none were ever sold. The National Corvette Museum has the only 1983 known at this time. The new Corvette plant in Bowling Green, KY closed in October of 1982 to begin retooling for the 1984 Corvette. Production began in January of 1983 and the press received their first view of the 1984 Corvette in January of 1983. In February, the first production 1984 Corvettes were sold to the public. In March of 1983, the 1984 Corvette officially went on sale in the United States, except for California and a month later, in April, the 1984 Corvette went on sale in California. By October of 1983, the plant was in full speed production.

1984 Corvette

Wheelbase: 96.2"	Track: 59.6" Front / 60.4" Rear	Height: 46.7"
Length: 176.5"	Width: 71"	Curb Weight: 3,192 lbs.
Tire Size: P255/70VR16	Plant: Bowling Green

Although the production run began in 1983, and the first recall was in 1983 (14,000 cars to fix problems with the power steering and battery cable, and 6,000 cars to replace defective brake components) the 1984 Corvette was a complete redesign in almost every aspect. Handling considerations were the main concern, and the result was praised by the automotive press as the world's best cornering automobile. Design criteria specified that the 1984 Corvette have more ground clearance and more interior room, but less overall height. In order to achieve this, the exhaust system was routed through a center tunnel. The 1984 was designed without fibreglass seams on exposed panels to eliminate factory finishing. The exterior seams were under the rub strip extending around the entire body.

Base Engine: 350ci V8 205hp

Engine Options:  None

1985 Corvette

Wheelbase: 96.2"	Track: 59.6" Front / 60.4" Rear	Height: 46.7"
Length: 176.5"	Width: 71"	Curb Weight: 3,224 lbs.
Tire Size: P255/70VR16	Plant:  Bowling Green

Planning for the Lotus 4-valve heads for the L-98 engine began in 1985 with a meeting with Tony Rudd, this would eventually lead to 1989 LT-5 engine which powered the ZR-1 Corvette. 47,000 1984 Models were recalled in 1985 to repair a problem with the cruise control system Genuine Fuel injection returned to the Corvette in 1985 with the introduction of tuned-port injection as standard equipment. Horsepower for the L-98 increased from 205 to 230hp. Car and Driver Magazine proclaimed the Corvette to be America's fastest production car in the January 1985 issue.

Base Engine: 350ci V8 230hp

Engine Options:  None

1986 Corvette

Wheelbase: 96.2"	Track: 59.6" Front / 60.4" Rear	Height: 46.7" Coupe
Length: 176.5"	Width: 71"	Curb Weight: 3,239 lbs. Coupe
Tire Size: P255/70VR16	Plant: Bowling Green

A 1986 Corvette convertible was the Official Pace Car for the 70^th Indianapolis 500 race. The first Lotus/Chevrolet V8 engine was fired up on a test bed at Hethel, England (LT-5). Chevrolet entered into a business relationship with Callaway Engineering to produce a 345hp twin-turbo Corvette at a cost of $51,000. The 1986 Corvette convertible was the first factory convertible option since 1975 and all were designed as Pace Car Replicas. The ABS braking system became standard equipment with 1986 Corvettes. A center line "High Mount" stoplight was added to the 1986 Corvette to comply with federal requirements. 50 Malcom Konner Commemorative Edition 1986 Corvettes were built in a special arrangement honouring the New Jersey Chevrolet dealership's founder Malcom Konner .

Base Engine: 350ci V8 230hp (Iron Heads)

Engine Options:  350ci 235hp (Aluminum Heads)

1987 Corvette

Wheelbase: 96.2"	Track: 59.6" Front / 60.4" Rear	Height: 46.7" Coupe
Length: 176.5"	Width: 71"	Curb Weight: 3,216 lbs. Coupe
Tire Size: P255/70VR16	Plant: Bowling Green

The Corvette featured roller valve lifters. The friction reduction resulted in a gain of 5hp for the Aluminum Head Engines. The Callaway Twin Turbo package was an option for 1987 although not GM installed.

Base Engine: 350ci V8 240hp

Engine Options: None

1988 Corvette

Wheelbase: 96.2"	Track: 59.6" Front / 60.4" Rear	Height: 46.7" Coupe
Length: 176.5"	Width: 71"	Curb Weight: 3,245 lbs. Coupe
Tire Size: P255/70VR16	Plant: Bowling Green

A Callaway Twin Turbo Corvette reached a speed of 254.76 MPH at the Transportation Research Center of Ohio, and one of the five original Grand Sports sold at auction for $500,000. Refinements to the 1988 Corvette included carpeted door sills, solution dyed carpet, improved ventilation for coupes. A thirty fifth anniversary edition 1988 Corvette was available for coupes only. Sales for the anniversary edition totalled 2,050 cars.

Base Engine: 350ci V8 240/245hp

Engine Options: None

1989 Corvette

Wheelbase: 96.2"	Track: 59.6" Front / 60.4" Rear	Height: 46.7" Coupe
Length: 176.5"	Width: 71"	Curb Weight: 3,238 lbs. Coupe
Tire Size: P275/40ZR17	Plant: Bowling Green

Zora Arkus-Duntov sold his 1974 Corvette for a six-figure amount. The new 6-speed Manual Transmission made it's debut in the 1989 Corvette. 84 ZR-1 Corvettes were built for evaluation, testing and media preview, dealers were informed the ZR-1 would be a 1990 Model. Planning began on the next Generation Corvette C-5, at that time to be introduced in 1993.

Base Engine: 350ci V8 240/245hp

Engine Options: None

1990 Corvette

Wheelbase: 96.2"	Track: 59.6" Front / 60.4" Rear	Height: 46.7" Coupe
Length: 176.5"	Width: 71"	Curb Weight: 3,288 lbs. Coupe
Tire Size: P275/40ZR17	Plant: Bowling Green

The ZR1 made it's debut as a 1990 model after much anticipation. LT5 Engines were manufactured by Mercury Marine in Stillwater, OK then shipped the Corvette Bowling Green assembly plant for ZR1 assembly. A Team of ZR1 Corvettes set over a dozen records for speed and endurance, such as averaging 175MPH for 24 hours Straight in Fort Stockton, Texas.

RPO ZR1 included unique body work to accept Goodyear Z-rated P315/35ZR17 tires on 11 inch wide rear rims. The LT-5 32 valve engine was exclusive to ZR1.

Base Engine: 350ci V8 245/250hp

Engine Options: 350ci 375hp

1991 Corvette

Wheelbase: 96.2"	Track: 59.6" Front / 60.4" Rear	Height: 46.7" Coupe
Length: 178.6"	Width: 71"	Curb Weight: 3,288 lbs. Coupe
Tire Size: P275/40ZR17	Plant: Bowling Green

The 1991 Corvette had restyled rear exteriors which are similar in appearance to the 1990 ZR1 Corvette. Both the standard and ZR1 Corvette featured new front designs with wrap-around parking, cornering, fog lamps, and new side panel louvers, and wider body-side mouldings in body colour. A power wire for cellular phones and other 12-volt devices was added as was a sensor utilizing an oil pan float. The works "Low Oil" appeared on the driver information center to signal a low oil condition. A special "Rick Mears" edition Corvette ZR1 was displayed at the New York Automobile Show.

RPO ZR1 included unique body work to accept Goodyear Z-rated P315/35ZR17 tires on 11 inch wide rear rims. The LT-5 32 valve engine was exclusive to ZR1.

Base Engine: 350ci V8 245/250hp

Engine Options: 350ci 375hp

1992 Corvette

Wheelbase: 96.2"	Track: 59.6" Front / 60.4" Rear	Height: 46.7" Coupe
Length: 178.5"	Width: 71"	Curb Weight: 3,338 lbs. Coupe
Tire Size: P275/40ZR17	Plant: Bowling Green

The One Millionth Corvette was built in 1992 and Stingray III design concept car made it's debut. The 1992 exterior appearance was little changed. On the ZR1 models, "ZR1" emblems were added above the side fender vents.

RPO ZR1 included unique body work to accept Goodyear Z-rated P315/35ZR17 tires on 11 inch wide rear rims. The LT-5 32 valve engine was exclusive to ZR1.

Base Engine: 350ci V8 300hp

Engine Options: 350ci 375hp

1993 Corvette

The 1993 exterior appearance continued little changed, but a 40^th Anniversary package was introduced as RPO Z25. Chevrolet general manager Jim Perkins stated that a fifth-generation (C5) Corvette would be available in 1997.

RPO ZR1 included unique body work to accept Goodyear Z-rated P315/35ZR17 tires on 11 inch wide rear rims. The LT-5 32 valve engine was exclusive to ZR1.

Base Engine: 350ci V8 300hp

Engine Options: 350ci 405hp

1994 Corvette

The 1994 Exterior design was carried over from 1993, but two new colours were added, Admiral Blue, and Copper Metallic. New "non-directional" wheels were included with the ZR1 Models. For the first time in 20 years, there was a Corvette at Le Mans, produced by Reeves Callaway. It qualified for GT2 class pole position, was leading it's class at the 6 hour mark and was 8^th overall, but ran out of gas in the 9^th hour.

RPO ZR1 included unique body work to accept Goodyear Z-rated P315/35ZR17 tires on 11 inch wide rear rims. The LT-5 32 valve engine was exclusive to ZR1.

Base Engine: 350ci V8 300hp

Engine Options: 350ci 405hp

1995 Corvette

The last ZR1 Corvette rolled off the assembly line in 1995 During it's six year life span, 6939 ZR1 Corvettes were built. In May the 79^th Indianapolis 500 race opened with a 1995 Corvette as pace car. The front fender "gill" vents were redesigned for 1995.

Base Engine: 350ci V8 300hp

Engine Options: 350ci 405hp   The LT-5 32 valve engine was exclusive to ZR1.

1996 Corvette

The last C4 Corvette rolled off the assembly June 20, 1996. A new version of the 350ci small block RPO LT4 was optional exclusively with the 1996 Corvette. It was rated at 330 horse power, 30 more than the LT1. LT1 Engines were mated only to automatic transmissions. The Collector Edition included Sebring Silver paint and special trim. ZR1 style 17" 5 spoke wheels were used, but painted silver with P255/45ZR17 front tires, and P285/40ZR17 rear tires. The Grand Sport included the LT4 engine, and distinctive Admiral Blue paint with a White center stripe and special detailing. Interior colours were limited to black or a red black combination. ZR1 style wheels were used, but painted black. The coupe included a fender flare over the rear tires.

Base Engine: 350ci V8 300hp

Engine Options: 350ci 330hp

1997 Corvette

Wheelbase: 104.5"	Track: 62.1" Front / 62" Rear	Height: 47.8" Coupe
Length: 179.6"	Width: 73.6"	Curb Weight: 3,221 lbs. Coupe
Tire Size: P245/45ZR17 Front                P275/40ZR18 Rear	Plant: Bowling Green

The C5 (Fifth Generation) Corvette was scheduled for release in 1993, but internal problems with GM, productions delays, and financial problems delayed it's introduction until January of 1997. The result is a Corvette most call the best ever. The 1997 is the first totally new Corvette in history, even the 1953 used parts intended for other automobiles. This Corvette has a totally new frame, engine, and rear mounted transmission (a Corvette first). This combination provides near equal weight distribution (51.4/48.6) with the automatic transmission. Wheel size is 17 x 8.5 front, and 18 x 9.5 rear. Top speed is 172 MPH

Base Engine: LS1- Displacement 5.665 litres or 345.69 cubic inches, V8 345hp

Engine Options: 350ci 345hp

1998 Corvette

Wheelbase: 104.5"	Track: 62.1" Front / 62" Rear	Height: 47.8" Coupe
Length: 179.6"	Width: 73.6"	Curb Weight: 3,221 lbs. Coupe
Tire Size: P245/45ZR17 Front                P275/40ZR18 Rear	Plant: Bowling Green

Early in the 1998 calendar year, Corvette's new Active System (AHS) debut's as an option on all Corvette models. AHS is truly the next step in the evolution of Corvette's ABS and Traction control systems. In simple terms, it helps correct the difference between the driver's intended direction for the vehicle during a turn and its actual direction. . For the first time since 1962, the Corvette Convertible has a trunk, and experts agree…. It's the best Corvette yet!!

Base Engine: LS1- Displacement 5.7 litre  V8 SFI – 345hp

PERFORMANCE:  0-6- mph – 5 sec       Top Speed 165 MPH

1999 Corvette

Wheelbase: 104.5"	Track: 62.1" Front / 62" Rear	Height: 47.8" Coupe
Length: 179.6"	Width: 73.6"	Curb Weight: 3,221 lbs. Coupe
Tire Size: P245/45ZR17 Front                P275/40ZR18 Rear	Plant: Bowling Green

For the first time ever, The Corvette is available in three different body styles…the coupe with removable targa roof, the convertible, and the new for ’99 hardtop model which is the first fixed-roof Corvette in over thirty years. As the least expensive model, the hardtop’s restricted options list is tailored to those interested in a simpler, more performance oriented Corvette, with 6-speed manual transmission, and a Z51 Performance Handling Package as standard. New options included the heads Up Display, Twilight Sentinel, and Power Telescoping Steering Column. The hardtop is about 80 pounds lighter than the coupe, and it’s chassis is nearly 12% stiffer than the coupes, when the hardtop is installed.

Base Engine: LS1- Displacement 5.7 litre  V8 SFI – 345hp

2000 Corvette

Wheelbase: 104.5"	Track: 32.1" Front / 62" Rear	Height: 47.8" Coupe
Length: 179.6"	Width: 73.6"	Curb Weight: 3,221 lbs. Coupe
Tire Size: P245/45ZR17 Front                P275/40ZR18 Rear	Plant: Bowling Green

Major changes for 2000: two new exterior colours – Millennium Yellow & Dark Bowling Green Metallic. New interior colour – Torch Red. New design 5 spoke forged aluminum wheel (optional high polish version available)

Base Engine: LS1- Displacement 5.7 litre  V8 SFI – 345hp

1952 Motorama Corvette

In 1952, the Corvette took the Motorama by storm gaining it's title as the "Dream Car" For the first time in history, the Corvette captured the world's enthusiasm for an American built sports vehicle.

1953 Corvette V8 EX-122

This car started off life on 30 June 1953 as 1953 Corvette No 2. Originally Polo White, it was taken from the assembly line and assigned to Chevrolets proving ground.  Under testing, the car went through several changes and updates to correct early production problems and bring the car up to what were considered satisfactory production standards.

In October 1953 Chevrolet Work Order No. 19001-2 directed engineering "To install a V-8 engine in a 1953 Corvette for mock-up purposes in order to facilitate determining design problems encountered in a 1955 production Corvette."

This was the corvette that was chosen and a non-running  experimental engine replaced the original six cylinder engine. The mock-up installation was completed and hand written notes were made regarding modifications to the body which would be necessary for the 1955 production car.

Towards the end of 1953 the car was completely rebuilt to accommodate a developmental running V-8 engine for 1955 production testing. The car also received a new Powerglide transmission, 3:27:1 rear end, 12 volt electrical system and a new cooling system amongst a host of changes to update the specifications. During the rest of 1954 and the early 1955 the car was used for evaluation and wind tunnel testing. Around May of 1955 the car was again rebuilt and was then used for ride development. In August, a new V-8  engine and Powerglide was installed and the car was used for durability testing at the proving ground.

Late in 1955 the car was completely torn down and checked for wear and stress and reports made for production revision. The car was again totally rebuilt and repainted red. It is believed that it was at this time that the EX-122 designation was assigned. Once rebuilt, EX-122 was used as a company courtesy vehicle before being put up for sale and being sold on 11 April 1956 to a GM executive. The car was later sold again for $1,000 with 30,000 miles on it. The car was totally restored starting in 1973 and took 5 years. After some considerable discussion and research revealed its true history, it was decided to restore the car back to its April 1956 configuration. A unique vehicle, the oldest corvette in existence and the first V-8 Corvette.

54 Motorama

Subsequent to the introduction of the Corvette, Harley Earl, vice-president of General Motors styling, put his team to work on three new show cars for the 1954 Motorama. The trio consisted of a car based on the standard Corvette roadster (with the roll up windows and bolt-on hard top that would see production in '56), a stunning Nomad wagon which led to the production version introduced in 1955, and the beautiful fastback coupe named "Corvair."

Nomad

Corvair

1955 Corvette Prototype

GM design chief Harley Earl, suggested this mild facelift for ’55 or ’56, crafted on a production 1954 model. The main changes involved a neat egg crate grill, front fender vents, and a sculpted “shadow box” rear deck, as on the Corvette based 1954 Motorama  Corvair coupe. Ultimately, greater changes were made in the 1956 model year.

1957 Corvette Prototype

Had the original Corvette been face lifted as first planned, it might have given way in 1957 to this model patterned on the 1955 LaSalle roadster, another Motorama special. One exception was the big, pointy front bumper bullets, which seem to have been borrowed from Buick’s 1954 Wildcat II show car. The sweeping elliptical bodyside “coves”  did appear on the production 1956 Corvette, the one element retained from this interim proposal.

1956 Corvette SR2

Cole initially planned to develop the Corvette along separate racing and touring lines as did Jaguar with the XK series on the one hand and the "C" and "D" types on the other. Implementing this objective, racing options were introduced in 1956,then the Corvette SR2

1957 Corvette SS

The Corvette SS, introduced in 1957, was intended to be the prototype competition car. But shortly after the SS made a promising debut at Sebring, under the personal direction of Zora Arkus-Duntov, European designer and driver, the Automobile Manufacturers Association resolution on competition cut off this line of development. As an alternative, Chevrolet decided to give the Corvette buyer as much of both worlds as possible by combining in one automobile the comfort of a tourer and the ability of a competition sports car.

1959 Corvette XP700

A 1958 Corvette was modified to be the personal car of William L. "Bill" Mitchell. First, in 1958, it received a special rear end of duck-tail type, which was incorporated in the regular '61 Corvette, and the front end was redesigned to look almost like the one of the Oldsmobile F88 '54 show car. In 1959, the car was modified again to became a real show car: longer rear end, new front end with smaller air intake, new transparent roof with a periscope in the middle of the two bubbles.

1962 XP-755 Shark

Bill Mitchell took as a starting point the general line of Sting Ray, then added the shapes of a shark which he had encountered during a fishing trip in Bimini. Following the lead of the XP-700, the XP-755 also had a transparent roof, and was equipped with a new rear view mirror-periscope. It had side exhausts, but with the exposed pipes in the shape  of a fin. There was a grid with fine plates covering the retractable headlights, a prominent nose, slots sheltering the turn-signal lamps, and the hues of a shark.

1965 Mako Shark II

Bill Mitchell poses with his new dream of a future Corvette, Mako Shark II. Mechanically similar to the production Sting Ray, it was characterized some by its aggressive styling, and by its multiple accessories controlled by 17 electric motors: disappearing headlights and windshield wipers, removable panels above the fixed seats, adjustable pedals, etc.

1963 Sting Ray Prototype

This is an early prototype of the 1963 Sting Ray photographed in October 1959. The roof is more rounded here than on production ‘63s, reflecting work on the Q-Corvette of 1957, a more radically engineered design once proposed for 1960, but killed for cost reasons in favour of a more conventional car, with styling patterned on the late fifties Stingray racing roadster.

1963 Corvette +2 Seating Prototype

It was based on a 1963 split window coupe, but the doors, side windows, and wheelbase were all stretched to make room for “+2” seating. Photographed in late January 1962, this back-seat Corvette was briefly considered for production with an eye to stealing some thunder from Ford’s T-Bird, but the idea was dropped for being out of step with the Corvette’s sports car character.

1958-66 Corvette Sting Ray Roadster

In 1958, Bill Mitchell and his styling department obtain an experimental frame, with the parts from a Corvette SS. From drafts carried out since 1957 for the new Corvette series project, which gave rise to the 1963 Sting Ray, Larry Shinoda and Bill Mitchell hand made a roadster body out of glass fibre. The car, painted in red, ran in the reserved American sports car championship. At the end of the season, the Sting Ray received a new more solid body and was painted metallized grey, where it competed in the Nassau Trophy race. It is transformed into show car for the 1961 Chicago Auto Show. In 1962, it underwent further modifications such as a cap and passenger windshield, was again painted red, and became Mitchell’s favourite means of transport. Finally, in 1966, it returned to its former layout, and was again repainted metallized grey.

1969 Corvette Mako Shark I

After losing its transparent roof, and being transformed into roadster, the original Shark acquired a new name and changed its styling slightly. In the final 1969 version, it was protected by small bumpers. The colours were also darker.

1968 Corvette Astro-Vette

The Astro-Vette was Chevy's other big auto-show star in 1968, but it was merely an exaggerated version of that year's all-new "Shark" production design. Allegedly good aerodynamics were never proven.

1968 Astro II-XP-880

Though not called Corvette, the curvy one-off Astro II of 1968 fueled rumors that a mid-engine Chevy sports car was near. Developed as GM project XP-880, it was a follow-up to the previous year's Corvair-based Astro I, but carried a Corvette V-8 and conventional doors. The entire rear half of the body was hinged to tilt up for engine access.

1970 Corvette XP-882

Shot in the GM Design Staff viewing court just before its public debut in early 1970, the experimental XP-882 looked production-ready, thus fueling hopes that the next new Corvette would have a similar mid-engine design. It definitely looked like a Corvette, with overtones of the 1968-vintage "Shark" model in its low vee'd nose and four-lamp tail treatment. The car would have stayed under wraps, but was shown to counter Ford's announced sale of Italian-built DeTomaso Panteras. GM built two XP-882 chassis for evaluation, but only the first one had the bodywork shown here.

1972 Corvette XP-895

Unveiled in 1972, this vehicle was thought by many to be the long rumored mid-engine Corvette. It was built on one of two chassis  from the earlier XP-882 midships project. Neither project led to any future Corvette. However, a later XP-895 body was fabricated in Reynolds aluminum for publicity and research purposes. 

1973 Corvette XP-882

Arguably more stunning than the Two- Rotor XP-897GT was the so-called "Four-Rotor Car" that appeared a bit later in 1973. Built on the first XP-882 chassis under the aegis of company design chief Bill Mitchell, it carried a pair of GM's experimental two-rotor engines bolted together into a 420 horsepower "super Wankel." A Corvette-like face and obvious high performance potential were taken as strong suggestions that GM was brewing a radical new Corvette for the late Seventies or early Eighties.

1973 XP-897 GT

Built by Pininfarina to a GM design, the XP-897GT "Two-Rotor Car" appeared in 1973 as a showcase for GM's then-imminent Wankel-type rotary engine. Like the original XP-882, it was widely believed to be a precursor of the next generation Corvette.

1973 XP-898

It looks a bit like post-1982 Corvettes, but the one-off XP-898 of 1973 was actually built on the chassis of Chevy's small four-cylinder Vega. It's mission was to test feasibility of a new "sandwich" fiberglass body construction using a foam filler that could be varied in thickness to provide desired strength in specific areas. Though it looks a bit dated now, XP-898 would have been a great replacement for the '68-vintage "Shark" Corvette in, say, 1975.

1976 XP-882 Aerovette

The Four-Rotor Car got a transplanted V-8 in 1976 to become the Aerovette, which came close to production four years later. GM design chief Bill Mitchell kept its original lines intact, however -- not that there was reason to fiddle. A good- looker even now, it's a dynamic design even when viewed from overhead. In profile, it displays a strongly triangulated "mound" shape, deftly balanced proportions, and artful surface detailing. "Gull wing" doors barked back to the original Mercedes 300SL coupe, but were articulated for easier operation in tight parking spots. Interior was more fully engineered than the show-car norm, another indication that the Aerovette was indeed a serious production prospect.

Corvette Indy & CERV III

After the introduction of the 4^th generation Corvette, the Corvette Indy concept car was introduced in 1985 to show a possible next generation Corvette. The first example was a non working mock-up (grey), followed by two working examples. One of them (red) is shown here. The blue CERV III, (Corporate Engineering Research Vehicle) was introduced in 1989. It featured 4-Wheel Drive, 4-Wheel Steering and CRT Cockpit Screens. The mid-engine V8 was a 5.7 liter 32 valve, dual overhead cam LT5 Engine with the addition of twin turbos and internal modifications. Speed was 225 MPH , with horsepower rated at 650. Many of the styling and engineering features found here, made their way to the 5^th Generation Corvettes.