The C-7…End of an Era
Origins:
Interestingly, the seventh generation Corvette was intended to be the inauguration of the mid-engine platform that Chevrolet had been working on since 2008, but diminished GM funding delayed the project for years. The C-7’s, the last of the front engine Corvettes, were produced for model years 2014 through 2019. This was also the first series to resurrect the ‘Stingray’ name since the final C-3’s rolled off the assembly line in Bowling Green, Kentucky back in 1982.
Styling:
The C-7 vehicles were a significant departure from the preceding generation. Though the exposed headlights and general proportions remained, the new more angular styling with a squared-off rear end dressed with trapezoidal LED taillights gave this Corvette a decidedly aggressive silhouette. There’s no doubt that some old school enthusiasts were taken by surprise, but GM’s move to this bolder design was a clear intent to attract a larger segment of more youthful buyers going forward.
General Specs:
The C-7’s debut featured a new 6.2 liter small block V8 that, in base form produced 455 hp and 460 lb.-ft. of torque. To manage the power, a seven speed manual gearbox was offered along with a six speed GM automatic. Continuous variable valve timing was also introduced to improve engine management and mileage considerations. Overall, the Corvette’s new engine provided a rather quick zero to 60 time of 3.8 seconds. To keep the weight in check, a carbon fiber hood with newly formulated fiberglass composite body panels mounted to a hydro-formed all aluminum chassis became the construction standard.
Models and Metrics:
The new C-7 Stingray coupe and convertible offered a premium 3LT interior package as well as a Z51 performance package with a tweaked suspension, tuned exhaust and four driving mode selections from tour to sport. Both body styles could also be ordered in Premium and Gran Touring editions featuring a host of appearance and creature comforts that enhanced the driving experience. The 2015 model year introduced an optional eight speed automatic transmission. More importantly the new Z06 was unveiled with the 6.2 liter V8 sporting a supercharger that boasted 650 hp and 650 lb.- ft. of pavement pounding torque.
Additionally, the Z06 was now available in both coupe and convertible body styles. Other than some color schemes and interior touches, little was changed for the 2016 model year. However, in 2017 the new Grand Sport model was unveiled with an LT1 small block that utilized a race style dry sump oiling system and cranked out 460 hp. A seven speed manual gearbox with electronic limited-slip differential and Brembo brakes completed the Grand Sport package. The 2018 Corvette continued with the Stingray, Grand Sport and Z06 models that featured a range of trim and cosmetic changes along with several handling and sport tuned suspension upgrades.
The Grand Finale:
The big news for the conclusion of the C-7 series in 2019 was the re-introduction of the rare and wild ZR1. Essentially, it utilized the same tried and true 6.2 liter power plant as the Z06. However, with a more powerful Eaton supercharger, an upgraded crankshaft and dual-port and direct injection, the ZR1 was a veritable beast producing an amazing 755 hp and 715 lb.-ft. of tire shredding torque. If ever there was a ‘grand finale’ to the last of the venerable front engine Corvettes… this was it. While the six year run of the C-7 series was relatively short lived, it certainly enhanced the Corvette’s storied reputation as the most coveted of all American sports cars.